Hello there, young football enthusiasts! Are you excited to learn more about the coolest aspects of the game? Today, we’re going to dive into the exhilarating world surrounding a crucial event that takes place after a touchdown – the PAT! Get ready for an adventure packed with fun football facts!
Now, after scoring a touchdown, the team has two options to earn additional points. One option is to attempt a play called the “Point After Touchdown” (PAT), also known as the “extra point.” The other option is to go for the daring two-point conversion, which we’ll explore in another article. But for now, let’s focus on the fascinating world of the PAT!
Imagine this: your favorite team just scored a touchdown, and the atmosphere in the stadium is electric! Players and fans alike are bursting with joy and high fives are flying left and right. But there’s more to be accomplished if they want to make the most out of their touchdown.
During a PAT attempt, the team that just scored gets a chance to kick the ball through the opposing team’s goal posts. The ball is lined up a few yards away from the end zone, making it a total distance of about 17 yards from where the team initially set off. The objective is to send the ball soaring gracefully between the two tall goal posts, which are positioned at the back of the end zone.
A special player, called the kicker, steps up to the plate. They may be a specially designated kicker or even the team’s punter. As the kicker approaches the ball, the tension in the stadium builds. The snap is made, the ball is in the air, and with a mighty swing of the leg, the kicker propels it towards the goal posts!
If the ball sails splendidly above the crossbar and between the goal posts, it’s considered a successful PAT! Fans explode into cheers, and the team secures one precious point, added to their total score. It’s like the cherry on top of the cake!
However, it’s vital to remember that the opposing team is not just an idle spectator during this exciting play. They vigorously strive to block the ball’s path to the goal posts, unleashing an epic battle on the field. Every inch counts, as a blocked PAT would prevent the scoring team from earning that coveted extra point.
In rare instances, teams opt for the “fake PAT,” where instead of kicking the ball through the goal posts, they opt for a surprise play. It could involve a pass or run into the end zone. The element of surprise can catch the opposing team off guard, leading to an incredible two-point conversion instead of the typical one-point PAT.
So, my young football enthusiasts, remember the PAT as the thrilling moment after a touchdown where teams aim to extend their lead. The kicker’s power, precision, and the opposing team’s resilience all come together to create an awe-inspiring spectacle. With every successful PAT, the crowd erupts in joy, witnessing the magic of this special play!