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Post Touchdown Attempt in Football: A Complete Guide

January 7, 2025 by
Lewis Calvert

In American football, the moments following a touchdown are filled with strategic decision-making and potential game-changing plays. The post touchdown attempt represents a crucial scoring opportunity that can significantly impact the game's outcome. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about this vital aspect of football.

The Fundamentals of Post Touchdown Attempt

When a team scores a touchdown, earning six points, they're immediately presented with a critical decision. The post touchdown attempt provides two distinct options: attempting a one-point conversion (known as the Point After Touchdown or PAT) or going for a two-point conversion. This decision-making process has evolved significantly since football's early days.

  • Traditional PAT attempts occur from the 15-yard line
  • Two-point conversion attempts are made from the 2-yard line
  • Teams must declare their intention before the attempt
  • The defense can score points by returning a failed attempt

Historical Evolution of the Post Touchdown Attempt

The concept of the post touchdown attempt has undergone significant changes throughout football's history. Initially, the sport only offered the one-point conversion option, but the introduction of the two-point conversion in 1958 at the collegiate level, and later in 1994 in the NFL, revolutionized post-touchdown strategy.

Notable Timeline Events

  • 1958: College football introduces the two-point conversion
  • 1994: NFL adopts the two-point conversion
  • 2015: NFL moves PAT attempt to the 15-yard line
  • 2018: AAF introduces mandatory two-point conversions

Strategic Decision-Making in Post Touchdown Attempts

Coaches must consider multiple factors when choosing their post touchdown attempt strategy. This decision often depends on various game situations and team capabilities.

Key Factors Influencing Decisions

  • Current score and time remaining
  • Weather conditions and field position
  • Team's offensive and defensive strengths
  • Statistical success rates in previous attempts
  • Opponent's defensive capabilities

Technical Execution of the Post Touchdown Attempt

The success of a post touchdown attempt relies heavily on precise execution and coordination between team members. Whether opting for a PAT or two-point conversion, specific techniques and formations come into play.

One-Point Conversion Mechanics

  • Proper ball placement by the holder
  • Precise timing between snapper, holder, and kicker
  • Protection schemes against defensive pressure
  • Follow-through techniques for kickers

Two-Point Conversion Strategies

  • Formation variations and personnel packages
  • Quick-hitting run plays versus passing options
  • Misdirection and deception tactics
  • Red zone offensive concepts

Statistical Analysis of Post Touchdown Attempt Success Rates

Understanding the numbers behind post touchdown attempt outcomes can provide valuable insights for decision-making. Here's a detailed breakdown of success rates:


Attempt TypeNFL Success RateCollege Success Rate
PAT (1-point)94.7%93.8%
2-point conversion47.9%43.2%
Weather-affected PAT91.2%89.5%

Impact of Rule Changes on Post Touchdown Attempts

Recent rule modifications have significantly affected how teams approach the post touchdown attempt. These changes have led to evolving strategies and success rates.

  • Moving the PAT attempt back to the 15-yard line
  • Allowing defenses to return failed attempts for points
  • Implementation of new safety protocols
  • Changes in formation requirements

Common Mistakes During Post Touchdown Attempts

Even professional teams can encounter difficulties during a post touchdown attempt. Understanding common errors helps teams improve their success rates.

Preventable Errors

  • Poor snap timing or placement
  • Inadequate protection schemes
  • Misread defensive alignments
  • Improper ball handling techniques

Advanced Tactics and Special Plays

Innovative coaches have developed unique post touchdown attempt plays to catch defenses off guard. These special plays can provide a tactical advantage in crucial situations.

  • Fake PAT attempts
  • Swinging gate formations
  • Quick snap tactics
  • Multiple shift strategies

Weather Considerations and Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions significantly impact post touchdown attempt success rates. Teams must adjust their strategies based on:

  • Wind direction and speed
  • Precipitation intensity
  • Field conditions
  • Temperature effects on ball flight

Training and Practice Techniques

Successful post touchdown attempt execution requires dedicated practice time and specific training methodologies. Teams typically focus on:

  • Regular repetition of basic mechanics
  • Situational pressure scenarios
  • Weather condition simulations
  • Team coordination drills

The Future of Post Touchdown Attempts

The evolution of the post touchdown attempt continues as the game progresses. Several potential changes and innovations are being discussed:

  • Alternative scoring options
  • New strategic variations
  • Technology integration
  • Rule modification proposals

Key Takeaways

  1. Post touchdown attempts provide crucial scoring opportunities
  2. Strategic decision-making involves multiple factors
  3. Success rates vary significantly between PAT and two-point conversions
  4. Practice and preparation are essential for consistent execution
  5. Environmental factors play a vital role in attempt success

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the success rate for NFL post touchdown attempts? A: The success rate for PATs is approximately 94.7%, while two-point conversions have a success rate of about 47.9%.

Q: When should teams attempt a two-point conversion? A: Teams typically consider two-point conversions when trailing by specific point margins, late in games, or when they have favorable matchups against the defense.

Q: How has moving the PAT attempt to the 15-yard line affected success rates? A: The move has decreased PAT success rates by approximately 5% since implementation, making the decision between one and two-point attempts more strategic.

Q: Can defenses score during a post touchdown attempt? A: Yes, defenses can return failed attempts for two points, adding another strategic element to the play.

Q: How do weather conditions affect post touchdown attempts? A: Weather can significantly impact success rates, particularly wind and precipitation affecting kick accuracy and ball handling.

Conclusion

The post touchdown attempt remains one of football's most strategic and crucial elements. Understanding its complexities, from basic execution to advanced tactics, helps teams maximize their scoring opportunities. As the game continues to evolve, we can expect to see further innovations and adaptations in how teams approach these vital plays.

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