In American football, scoring a touchdown is often the highlight of the game. However, the action doesn’t stop there. After a team scores a touchdown, they have an opportunity to increase their score through what is known as a “post touchdown attempt.”
This crucial phase can significantly impact the game’s outcome and involves strategic decisions and precise execution. In this article, we will explore the intricacies of post touchdown attempts, their historical evolution, strategic importance, and the various options teams have to secure those valuable extra points.
Understanding the Basics of Post Touchdown Attempt
A post touchdown attempt occurs immediately after a team scores a touchdown, which is worth six points. The team then has the option to add extra points through either a one-point or a two-point conversion. These extra points can be pivotal in tight games, influencing the strategies employed by coaches and players.
One-Point Conversion (Extra Point Kick)
The one-point conversion, also known as the extra point kick, is the most common and straightforward method to add a point after a touchdown. The team attempts a field goal from the opponent’s 15-yard line, effectively making it a 33-yard attempt. The success rate of extra point kicks is high, making it the go-to choice for most teams.
Two-Point Conversion
The two-point conversion is a riskier but potentially more rewarding option. Instead of kicking for one point, the team attempts to run or pass the ball into the end zone from the opponent’s 2-yard line. If successful, the team earns two extra points. The two-point conversion is less commonly attempted due to its lower success rate but can be strategically advantageous in certain game situations.
Historical Evolution of Post Touchdown Attempt
The concept of post touchdown attempts has evolved significantly since the inception of American football. Initially, touchdowns were worth fewer points, and the methods for scoring extra points varied widely. Over time, the rules were standardized, leading to the current system where touchdowns are worth six points, followed by an opportunity for a one-point or two-point conversion.
Early Years
In the early years of American football, the scoring system was different. Touchdowns were initially worth only four points, and the methods for adding extra points were not as clearly defined as they are today. Teams would often opt for different methods to score the extra points, including various types of kicks and even drop-kicks.
Modern Era
The modern scoring system, where touchdowns are worth six points, was established in the early 20th century. The introduction of the extra point kick became standardized, and the two-point conversion was later added to increase the strategic depth of the game. This change allowed teams to have more options and introduced new layers of strategy, especially in close games.
Strategic Importance of Post Touchdown Attempt
The strategic importance of post touchdown attempts cannot be overstated. Coaches must decide whether to go for a one-point or two-point conversion based on various factors, including the score, time remaining, and the strengths and weaknesses of their team and the opponent.
Factors Influencing the Decision
- Game Score: The current score often dictates the decision. If a team is trailing by one point late in the game, a two-point conversion may be necessary to secure a win. Conversely, if a team has a comfortable lead, they might opt for the safer one-point conversion.
- Time Remaining: The amount of time left in the game plays a crucial role. In the final minutes, teams may take more risks with a two-point conversion to either tie the game or take the lead.
- Team Strengths: The team’s offensive capabilities, including the proficiency of the kicker and the effectiveness of the running or passing game, influence the decision. Teams with strong kickers may prefer the extra point kick, while those with dynamic offensive players might opt for the two-point conversion.
- Opponent’s Defense: The strength and tendencies of the opposing defense are also considered. If the opponent has a stout goal-line defense, the one-point conversion might be the better choice.
Situational Examples
- Tied Game Late in the Fourth Quarter: A team scores a touchdown to tie the game. With only seconds remaining, the coach decides to attempt a two-point conversion for the win rather than going into overtime.
- Early in the Game: A team scores an early touchdown and opts for the extra point kick to take a seven-point lead, considering it too early to take unnecessary risks.
Execution of Post Touchdown Attempt
The execution of post touchdown attempts requires precision and coordination. Both the one-point and two-point conversions have their own unique sets of challenges and require different skill sets.
One-Point Conversion Execution
The extra point kick involves the snap, hold, and kick. The process is as follows:
- Snap: The long snapper delivers the ball to the holder, who is usually positioned 7-8 yards behind the line of scrimmage.
- Hold: The holder catches the snap and positions the ball on the ground, laces out, for the kicker.
- Kick: The kicker then attempts to kick the ball through the uprights.
The precision required in this sequence means that any small mistake, such as a bad snap or mishandling by the holder, can result in a missed attempt.
Two-Point Conversion Execution
The two-point conversion is more complex and can be executed in several ways, including running or passing plays. Here are some common approaches:
- Run Play: The offense lines up in a standard formation and attempts to run the ball into the end zone. This can involve various types of runs, including power runs, sweeps, or quarterback sneaks.
- Pass Play: The offense attempts to pass the ball into the end zone. This can involve short, quick passes or more elaborate play-action passes designed to deceive the defense.
- Option Play: The quarterback has the option to either pass or run the ball, depending on the defensive alignment and reaction.
Each of these plays requires careful planning and execution, as the defense will be highly focused on stopping the two-point attempt.
Advanced Strategies in Post Touchdown Attempt
Coaches often employ advanced strategies to increase their chances of success in post touchdown attempts. These strategies involve deception, unique formations, and exploiting specific weaknesses in the opponent’s defense.
Deceptive Plays
Deceptive plays are designed to catch the defense off guard. These can include:
- Fake Extra Point Kick: The team lines up as if they are attempting a one-point conversion but instead runs a play designed to score two points.
- Unconventional Formations: Using unusual formations can confuse the defense and create mismatches that the offense can exploit.
Analytical Approaches
In the modern era, analytics play a significant role in decision-making for post touchdown attempts. Teams use data to determine the probability of success for one-point versus two-point conversions in different situations.
- Success Rates: Coaches analyze historical data to understand the success rates of various types of conversions against different defenses.
- Game Theory: The principles of game theory are applied to decide the best course of action, considering not only the immediate impact but also the long-term strategic implications.
Psychological Aspects of Post Touchdown Attempt
The psychological aspects of post touchdown attempts can also influence the outcome. The pressure on the players, especially the kicker in a one-point conversion or the quarterback in a two-point conversion, can be immense.
Pressure on the Kicker
The kicker faces significant pressure, especially in close games or high-stakes situations. The psychological fortitude required to perform consistently under such pressure is critical. Techniques such as mental visualization and routine practice are often employed to help kickers handle the pressure.
Team Morale and Momentum
Successfully converting a post touchdown attempt can have a profound impact on team morale and momentum. It can energize the team and the fans, creating a positive feedback loop that enhances overall performance. Conversely, failing to convert can have a demoralizing effect.
Controversies and Debates Surrounding Post Touchdown Attempt
The strategies and decisions surrounding post touchdown attempts have sparked numerous debates and controversies over the years. These debates often center around the risk-reward balance and the fairness of certain rules.
Risk-Reward Balance
Critics argue that the two-point conversion’s risk-reward balance can sometimes lead to overly conservative decision-making by coaches. Some suggest that changes to the rules or the scoring system could encourage more aggressive and exciting play.
Fairness of Rules
The placement of the ball for the one-point and two-point conversions has also been a point of contention. Some argue that the current rules favor the one-point conversion too heavily, leading to a lack of strategic diversity.
Case Studies: Memorable Post Touchdown Attempts
Several memorable post touchdown attempts have left a lasting impact on the history of American football. These case studies illustrate the high stakes and dramatic outcomes that can result from these crucial plays.
Super Bowl XXXIV: Rams vs. Titans
In Super Bowl XXXIV, the St. Louis Rams opted for a two-point conversion after scoring a crucial touchdown late in the game. Although the attempt failed, it highlighted the strategic thinking involved in such decisions, as the Rams sought to secure a definitive lead.
College Football: Boise State vs. Oklahoma (2007)
One of the most famous post touchdown attempts in college football history occurred during the 2007 Fiesta Bowl. Boise State executed a perfectly planned and highly unconventional “Statue of Liberty” play for a two-point conversion in overtime, securing a stunning victory over Oklahoma.
Future of Post Touchdown Attempt
The future of post touchdown attempts will likely be influenced by ongoing rule changes, advancements in analytics, and evolving strategies. As the game continues to evolve, so too will the approaches teams take to secure those valuable extra points.
Potential Rule Changes
There have been discussions about potential rule changes to make the two-point conversion more appealing and to introduce more strategic variety into the game. These could include altering the placement of the ball or adjusting the point values.
Role of Technology and Analytics
As technology and analytics continue to advance, teams will have even more data at their disposal to make informed decisions about post touchdown attempts. This could lead to more sophisticated strategies and potentially higher success rates for both one-point and two-point conversions.
Conclusion
The post touchdown attempt is a critical aspect of American football that involves strategic decision-making, precise execution, and psychological resilience. Whether opting for a one-point extra point kick or a riskier two-point conversion, teams must carefully consider various factors to maximize their chances of success. As the game continues to evolve, so too will the strategies and approaches to post touchdown attempts, ensuring that this aspect of the game remains as exciting and impactful as ever.
