The Extra Point: A Crucial Part of American Football

American football is one of the most popular sports in the United States, and it is known for its unique scoring system. One of the most crucial parts of this scoring system is the extra point. In this article, we will discuss what an extra point is, how it works, and why it is so important in American football.

What is an Extra Point?

An extra point, also known as a point after touchdown (PAT), is a way to score additional points after a touchdown is scored. After a team scores a touchdown, they have the opportunity to kick the ball through the opponent’s goalposts for one point or attempt to score a two-point conversion from the two-yard line.

How does it work?

The extra point is kicked from the opponent’s two-yard line and must go through the uprights of the goalpost. The kick is worth one point, and if the kick is missed, the team does not receive any additional points. A two-point conversion is when the team attempts to score two points instead of one. The team must run or pass the ball into the opponent’s end zone from the two-yard line. If they are successful, they receive two points, but if they fail, they do not receive any additional points.

Why is it so important?

The extra point may only be worth one point, but it can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game. In a close game, every point matters, and missing an extra point can be the difference between winning and losing. In recent years, the importance of the extra point has been highlighted by a rule change. In 2015, the NFL moved the extra point attempt from the two-yard line to the 15-yard line, making the kick more difficult. This change has led to an increase in two-point conversion attempts, as teams try to maximize their scoring opportunities.

FAQ

1. Can a team score more than one extra point after a touchdown? No, a team can only attempt one extra point after a touchdown. If they are successful, they receive one additional point, and if they fail, they do not receive any additional points. 2. Can a team attempt a two-point conversion after every touchdown? Yes, a team can attempt a two-point conversion after every touchdown. However, most teams only attempt a two-point conversion when they need the extra points to tie or take the lead in a game. 3. Can a team score a field goal after a touchdown? No, after a touchdown, a team can only attempt an extra point or a two-point conversion. A field goal can only be attempted during regular play. In summary, the extra point is a crucial part of American football and can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game. It is a way for teams to score additional points after a touchdown and can be attempted through a kick or a two-point conversion. While it may only be worth one point, it is a point that can make all the difference in a close game.