"Most kickers don’t want that pressure and don’t want the game left up to their long kick. They’re praying the offense can punch it in or at least make it a chip shot."

I don't believe that at all.

Kickers have the same drive to win as any other athlete.  They want the chance to be the hero.  If they're silently praying not to be that guy, it is time to open up tryouts at the next practice.