Post Touchdown Attempt: Understanding the Key Phase of Football Scoring Plays

When a team scores a touchdown in American football, the excitement on the field often reaches a peak. However, the play does not end with the touchdown itself. One crucial phase that follows a touchdown is the post touchdown attempt, often referred to as the extra point or two-point conversion attempt. This phase plays a pivotal role in determining the final score and can significantly impact the outcome of the game. In this article, we will explore the post touchdown attempt, its variations, strategic considerations, and its impact on the dynamics of a football game.

The Basics of Post Touchdown Attempt

After a team scores a touchdown, they are granted the opportunity to add extra points to their score through a post touchdown attempt. This attempt can take two forms:

1. Extra Point (PAT): The most common type of post touchdown attempt is the extra point. This occurs when the team chooses to attempt a kick, typically from the 15-yard line. The kick is worth one point and is typically a straightforward attempt, though the kick’s success is not guaranteed.
2. Two-Point Conversion: Alternatively, the team may choose to attempt a two-point conversion. In this scenario, the offense runs a play from the two-yard line with the goal of crossing the end zone once more to score two additional points instead of one.

Both options offer a team the opportunity to further extend their lead, but the decision between an extra point or a two-point conversion can be a critical one based on various factors.

Extra Point Attempt: The Common Choice

The extra point attempt is the most frequently used option after a touchdown. The kicking team lines up to attempt a field goal from the 15-yard line, and if the ball successfully travels between the uprights, the team earns one additional point. The extra point is considered a relatively low-risk play, as most kickers in the NFL and college football have a high success rate when attempting extra points from this distance.

However, while the extra point may seem like a guaranteed score, it is not always a certainty. In recent years, missed extra points have become more common due to changes in the rules that moved the extra point kick back to the 15-yard line, making it more challenging than it was when the kick was originally from the 2-yard line. As a result, teams must still execute with precision, and factors like wind conditions, kicker skill, and holder accuracy all play significant roles in determining the success of the attempt.

Two-Point Conversion Attempt: Risk and Reward

In some situations, teams opt for a two-point conversion instead of the extra point attempt. A two-point conversion involves running a play from the two-yard line, and the offense must either pass or run the ball into the end zone to score two points. The decision to go for a two-point conversion often depends on the current game situation and the coach’s overall strategy.

Several factors may influence the decision to attempt a two-point conversion:

• Game Situation: Teams may opt for a two-point conversion if they need to catch up to their opponent’s score or if they are looking to extend a lead in a more aggressive manner. For example, in a close game where a field goal could be the difference between winning and losing, a coach might choose to attempt a two-point conversion to build a more substantial advantage.
• Team Strength: The success of a two-point conversion often depends on the strength of the offense. If the offense has been performing well in short-yardage situations, especially near the goal line, the coach might have confidence in their ability to execute a successful conversion.
• Defensive Considerations: A team may also opt for a two-point conversion if they believe that the opposing defense is weak or vulnerable near the goal line. The offense may have an opportunity to exploit a mismatch or take advantage of a specific weakness in the defense.

While the two-point conversion offers more points than an extra point, it is riskier. The success rate for two-point conversions is lower than extra point attempts, meaning that teams must carefully evaluate the potential rewards and risks before making a decision.

Factors Affecting the Post Touchdown Attempt

The success of a post touchdown attempt can be influenced by various factors, some of which can turn the tide of a game in unexpected ways. These factors include:

1. Weather Conditions

Weather plays a significant role in the success or failure of a post touchdown attempt, especially with the extra point kick. Strong winds, rain, or snow can make the kick more challenging, forcing teams to adjust their approach. A kicker who normally performs well in favorable conditions may struggle in adverse weather, potentially leading to a missed extra point or a failed two-point conversion.

2. Team Momentum

Momentum is a critical factor in football, and it can heavily influence the success of a post touchdown attempt. If a team has just scored a touchdown, they may feel a surge of confidence and energy, which could translate into a successful extra point or conversion. On the other hand, a team that is reeling from previous mistakes or failed attempts may struggle to execute the next play effectively.

3. Coaching Philosophy and Strategy

Coaching decisions often dictate the approach taken for a post touchdown attempt. Some coaches are more conservative and prefer to take the extra point to avoid unnecessary risks, while others may favor a more aggressive approach, choosing the two-point conversion to gain a strategic advantage. These decisions are influenced by a coach’s overall philosophy and how they assess the game’s flow.

4. Personnel and Execution

The execution of a post touchdown attempt hinges on the team’s personnel. The kicker’s ability to make the extra point, the quarterback’s decision-making and execution on a two-point conversion play, and the offensive line’s ability to protect the quarterback are all critical to success. Poor execution or breakdowns in any of these areas can result in a failed attempt.

The Psychological Impact of Post Touchdown Attempts

Beyond the technical aspects of the post touchdown attempt, these plays have psychological consequences for both teams. A successful post touchdown attempt can energize the scoring team and demoralize the opponent. Conversely, a failed extra point or two-point conversion can be a source of frustration and may give the opposing team new hope.

The psychological impact extends to the fans as well. A successful two-point conversion after a touchdown can increase the excitement in the stands and give the scoring team a psychological advantage. On the other hand, a missed extra point can cause fans to second-guess their team’s ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, adding pressure as the game progresses.

Strategic Decisions in Close Games

The post touchdown attempt becomes especially important in close games. Teams may find themselves trailing by a certain number of points, and the choice between an extra point and a two-point conversion can influence the remainder of the game. For example, if a team scores a touchdown to cut the deficit to five points, they may opt for a two-point conversion to tie the game. A missed attempt could leave the team with a one-point deficit, putting more pressure on future scoring opportunities.

In situations where a team needs to either tie the game or take the lead, coaches must carefully evaluate the pros and cons of the post touchdown attempt, keeping in mind the game clock, the team’s performance, and any strategic advantages they may have.

Conclusion

The post touchdown attempt is an often-overlooked yet crucial aspect of the scoring process in American football. Whether it’s a simple extra point or a bold two-point conversion, the decision to go for one or the other can shape the course of the game. Factors like weather, team momentum, coaching philosophy, and player execution all play significant roles in determining the outcome of a post touchdown attempt. As teams strive for victory, the ability to make the right decision and execute the play successfully is essential for maximizing their chances of success.

In summary, the post touchdown attempt may seem like a routine play, but it carries immense importance. Coaches, players, and fans alike must understand the nuances of this phase to fully appreciate its role in determining the final score of a game. Whether a team opts for the safety of an extra point or the excitement of a two-point conversion, the post touchdown attempt is an integral part of the game that keeps both players and fans on the edge of their seats.