What Does Pat Mean In Football? PAT stands for Point After Touchdown, also known as an extra point, is an additional scoring opportunity awarded to a team after they score a touchdown. This article from CauHoi2025.UK.COM will delve into the history, rules, and significance of the PAT in American football, offering comprehensive insights for fans and enthusiasts alike. Learn about the implications of the new NFL rules and some memorable misses.
1. Decoding PAT: Understanding the Basics of Point After Touchdown
In American football, after a team scores a touchdown, they have the opportunity to score one additional point. This is done by kicking the ball through the uprights of the goalpost, a play known as the Point After Touchdown (PAT) or extra point. It’s a fundamental aspect of the game, adding a layer of strategy and sometimes, unexpected drama. This kick is usually taken from a short distance, making it a high-percentage play, but rule changes and pressure can still lead to critical misses.
1.1. The Anatomy of a PAT Attempt
A PAT attempt involves several key players and precise coordination. The process generally unfolds as follows:
- Snap: The center snaps the ball to the holder, who is usually the punter.
- Hold: The holder places the ball on the ground, securing it for the kicker.
- Kick: The kicker then approaches and kicks the ball through the uprights of the goalpost.
- Defense: The defense tries to block the kick.
Successful completion results in one additional point for the team.
1.2. Point After Touchdown vs. Two-Point Conversion
Instead of attempting a PAT, teams have the option to try a two-point conversion. This involves running or passing the ball into the end zone from the 2-yard line. A successful two-point conversion awards two points, but it’s a riskier play compared to the near-certainty of a PAT kick. The decision to go for a two-point conversion often depends on the game situation, score, and the team’s strengths.
2. A Historical Look at the PAT
The history of the PAT is marked by several rule changes aimed at enhancing the game’s excitement and strategic depth.
2.1. Early Days of the Extra Point
In the early days of football, the extra point was not always a given. Its value and execution have evolved significantly over time, reflecting changes in offensive and defensive strategies. Initially, the extra point was more challenging, often kicked from further out.
2.2. NFL’s Rule Changes to the PAT
The NFL has made several changes to the PAT rules over the years, most notably moving the line of scrimmage for the kick. Before 2015, the ball was placed on the 2-yard line, making the kick almost a certainty. However, in 2015, the NFL moved the PAT line back to the 15-yard line to make the play more challenging and exciting. According to NFL statistics, this change increased the number of missed PATs and added a new strategic element to the game.
