In football, you can get 2 points through a two-point conversion or a safety. These are specific ways teams add points to their score during a game, distinct from other scoring plays like touchdowns or field goals.
Football is a game of strategy, skill, and exciting scoring opportunities. While most fans are familiar with the thrill of a touchdown and the subsequent extra point, the game offers other, less frequent ways to add points to the scoreboard. Among these are the two-point conversion and the safety, each with its own unique rules and implications. This detailed guide will explore precisely how a team can achieve these two-point scores, breaking down the mechanics and strategic considerations involved in these important football scoring methods. Fathoming these nuances is key to a deeper appreciation of football game points.
The Two-Point Conversion: A Bold Choice
A two-point conversion is a play attempted after a touchdown, where the offense tries to score by running or passing the ball into the end zone from the opponent’s 2-yard line (in the NFL and CFL) or 3-yard line (in college football). Unlike the traditional extra point, which is a kick from a longer distance and typically worth one point, the two-point conversion is a riskier, high-reward play designed to secure two points directly.
When is a Two-Point Conversion Attempted?
Teams typically opt for a two-point conversion in specific game situations. These often include:
- When Trailing Late in the Game: If a team is down by a small margin, say 1, 3, or 5 points, a successful two-point conversion can be crucial to either tie the game or take a significant lead.
- When Winning by a Small Margin: If a team is leading by a few points, they might attempt a two-point conversion to extend their lead to a more comfortable margin, especially if they feel a single point from an extra point kick might not be enough against a potent offense.
- Strategic Decisions: Coaches might also decide to go for two based on their team’s strengths (e.g., a strong short-yardage offense) or their opponent’s weaknesses (e.g., a poor red-zone defense).
The Mechanics of a Two-Point Conversion
The play begins like any other offensive snap. The offense lines up at the designated yard line (2 or 3 yards from the goal line). The objective is simple: get the ball across the goal line.
Scoring Plays for a Two-Point Conversion:
- Passing: The quarterback can throw the ball to a receiver in the end zone.
- Rushing: A running back or quarterback can run the ball into the end zone.
- Other Offensive Plays: Any legal offensive play that results in the ball being possessed by an offensive player in the end zone is valid.
Key Differences from an Extra Point:
| Feature | Two-Point Conversion | Extra Point (PAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Points Awarded | 2 | 1 |
| Starting Yard Line | 2-yard line (NFL/CFL), 3-yard line (College) | 15-yard line (NFL/CFL), 15-yard line (College) |
| Method of Scoring | Run or Pass into End Zone | Kick through Goalposts |
| Risk vs. Reward | Higher risk, higher reward | Lower risk, lower reward |
| Play Type | Offensive play (run or pass) | Specialized kicking play |
Strategies Behind the Two-Point Conversion
The decision to go for two is a significant strategic gamble. Coaches must weigh the probability of success against the potential outcome.
- The “What If” Scenario: If a team is down by 8 points and scores a touchdown, they are now down by 2. If they kick the extra point, they are still down by 1. If they go for two and succeed, they tie the game. This highlights the calculated risks involved.
- Momentum and Psychology: Successfully converting a two-point play can provide a significant psychological boost to the team and its fans, while a failed attempt can be demoralizing.
- Analytics and Data: Modern football analytics play a role in these decisions, with teams analyzing historical data and situational probabilities to make the most informed choices.
The Safety: A Defensive Score
A safety is a rare but significant scoring play that awards 2 points to the defensive team. It occurs when an offensive player with possession of the ball is tackled in their own end zone, or when the offense commits certain fouls in their own end zone.
Scenarios Leading to a Safety
There are several ways a safety can be awarded:
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Tackling the Ball Carrier in the End Zone: This is the most common way to score a safety. If an offensive player who has possession of the ball is tackled by a defensive player while within their own end zone, it results in a safety. This often happens when a quarterback is sacked in the end zone, or a running back is tackled after being forced back into their own end zone.
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Ball Goes Out of Bounds in the End Zone: If an offensive player with possession of the ball runs out of bounds in their own end zone, it’s a safety. This can happen if a player is trying to avoid a tackle and retreats into their end zone before stepping out of bounds.
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Offensive Foul in the End Zone: Certain fouls committed by the offense within their own end zone also result in a safety. Examples include:
- Holding: If an offensive lineman commits holding in the end zone to prevent a sack.
- Intentional Grounding: If a quarterback intentionally grounds the ball in the end zone to avoid a sack and there is no eligible receiver in the vicinity.
- Illegal Block in the Back: If an offensive player commits an illegal block in the back penalty in their own end zone.
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Ball Becomes Dead in the End Zone (Offensive Possession): If the ball becomes dead in the end zone and the offensive team is responsible for it being there, it can be ruled a safety. For instance, if an offensive player fumbles the ball forward into their own end zone and it goes out of bounds there, it’s a safety.
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Blocked Punt or Field Goal Attempt from the End Zone: If a team attempts a punt or a field goal from their own end zone, and the kick is blocked and the ball remains in the end zone and is recovered by the kicking team or goes out of bounds in the end zone, it’s a safety.
The Aftermath of a Safety
When a safety is scored, the team that conceded the points must then perform a “free kick” from their own 20-yard line to the scoring team. This free kick can be a punt or a placekick (like a kickoff). The receiving team gets possession of the ball after the free kick.
This means a safety not only awards 2 points but also results in a change of possession, making it a highly impactful defensive play.
Strategic Implications of a Safety
Safeties are generally not sought after by offensive teams, as they represent a failure in ball security and field position. However, defensive teams actively try to force them.
- Field Position Advantage: Forcing a safety gives the defense a significant field position advantage on the ensuing free kick.
- Defensive Dominance: A safety can be a sign of a dominant defensive performance, putting pressure on the opposing offense and forcing them into mistakes.
- Game Momentum: Similar to a two-point conversion, a safety can shift the momentum of a game, energizing the defense and demoralizing the offense.
Comparing Football Scoring Methods
Understanding all the ways points are scored in football provides a comprehensive view of the game. Let’s look at how the 2-point options fit into the broader landscape of football scoring.
Table: Football Scoring Methods and Point Values
| Scoring Method | Points Awarded | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touchdown | 6 | An offensive player legally crosses the opponent’s goal line with possession of the ball, or catches a legal forward pass in the opponent’s end zone. | Most Frequent |
| Extra Point (PAT) | 1 | A kick through the goalposts after a touchdown, attempted from a longer yard line. | Very Frequent |
| Two-Point Conversion | 2 | A run or pass into the end zone after a touchdown, attempted from close yard lines. | Less Frequent |
| Safety | 2 | The defense tackles an offensive player with the ball in their own end zone, or the offense commits certain fouls in their own end zone. | Least Frequent |
| Field Goal | 3 | A kick through the goalposts during normal play, typically attempted when close enough to the opponent’s goal. | Frequent |
When are 2-Point Opportunities Most Valuable?
The strategic value of a 2-point score depends heavily on the game situation.
- Late Game Scenarios: As mentioned, a 2-point conversion can be critical for tying or taking the lead in the final minutes. A safety can also be a game-changer if it happens at the end of a half or game, giving the defense points and the ball back.
- Red Zone Efficiency: For offenses, successfully converting a two-point play demonstrates efficiency in the red zone (the area between the opponent’s 20-yard line and their goal line).
- Defensive Pressure: For defenses, forcing a safety showcases their ability to make plays in their own territory and shut down the opponent.
Common Misconceptions about 2-Point Scores
- Two-Point Conversions are Always Tried: Not true. Coaches make strategic decisions based on the score and time remaining. Sometimes, kicking the extra point is the safer or more advantageous choice.
- Safeties are Only Caused by Sacks: While sacks in the end zone are a primary cause, various offensive errors in the end zone can lead to a safety.
Analyzing Scoring Opportunities
Every football game presents numerous scoring opportunities. Teams must be prepared to capitalize on them.
- Offensive Opportunities: These include scoring touchdowns, attempting field goals, and going for two-point conversions after touchdowns. The offense aims to move the ball efficiently down the field to create these chances.
- Defensive Opportunities: The defense’s primary goal is to prevent the offense from scoring. However, they can also create scoring opportunities for their team through turnovers (which can lead to touchdowns or field goals) and by forcing safeties.
Deciphering the Rules for 2 Points
The rules governing these 2-point scores are specific and must be followed precisely.
For a Two-Point Conversion:
- The Play: The ball must be legally advanced into the opponent’s end zone from the designated yard line (2 or 3 yards).
- Possession: The offensive player must have clear possession of the ball as they cross the plane of the goal line.
- No Special Teams: Unlike an extra point, a two-point conversion is purely an offensive play. Special teams units do not typically participate.
- Penalties: Penalties can affect a two-point conversion attempt. For example, if the defense commits a penalty that gives the offense an advantage, they might choose to try the conversion again from a closer spot. Conversely, an offensive penalty can make the attempt more difficult or even negate a successful conversion.
For a Safety:
- Location: The play must occur within the offensive team’s own end zone.
- Possession: The offensive player must be in possession of the ball when the criteria for a safety are met.
- Foul: If a foul is committed, it must be an offensive foul that occurs in the end zone.
- Ball Out of Bounds: If the ball carrier is forced out of bounds in their own end zone, it results in a safety.
- Dead Ball: The ball must be ruled dead in the end zone while in possession of the offensive team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can a team get 2 points from a field goal?
A1: No, a field goal is worth 3 points. You get 2 points from either a two-point conversion or a safety.
Q2: What happens if the team attempting a two-point conversion is penalized?
A2: If the offense commits a penalty, the yard line for the conversion attempt is moved back 10 yards. For example, if a false start penalty occurs at the 2-yard line, the conversion attempt would be from the 12-yard line. If they are successful from there, they still only get 2 points. If the defense commits a penalty that grants the offense the option to repeat the play, they can choose to do so, potentially from a closer spot if the penalty allows.
Q3: Can a defensive player score a safety on an offensive player if the offensive player fumbles the ball into their own end zone and then the defensive player recovers it?
A3: No. If an offensive player fumbles the ball in their own end zone, and it is recovered by the offense in the end zone, it’s a safety. If the defense recovers it in the end zone, it is usually a touchback, and the defensive team takes possession at their own 20-yard line. However, if the fumble goes out of bounds in the end zone after the fumble, and the offensive team was responsible for it going there, it is a safety.
Q4: Are safeties common in football?
A4: No, safeties are not very common. They are a relatively rare scoring play, occurring much less frequently than touchdowns, field goals, or extra points.
Q5: What is the difference between a two-point conversion and an extra point?
A5: A two-point conversion is an attempt to score 2 points by running or passing the ball into the end zone after a touchdown, from close range. An extra point (PAT) is an attempt to score 1 point by kicking the ball through the goalposts after a touchdown, from a longer distance.
Q6: Can a blocked extra point attempt result in 2 points for the defense?
A6: No. If an extra point attempt is blocked and returned by the defense into the opponent’s end zone, the defense scores 2 points. However, this is a return of a blocked extra point, not a safety. A safety is a specific type of play that awards 2 points to the defense under defined circumstances, usually involving the offense being tackled or committing a foul in their own end zone.
By exploring the nuances of the two-point conversion and the safety, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse scoring opportunities and strategic decisions that make football such a captivating sport. Whether it’s a daring two-point conversion attempt or a dominant defensive stand resulting in a safety, these 2-point plays add another layer of excitement to the game.