What Is a Two Point Conversion? NFL Try Rules

Aug 19

2 min read

Updated: 5 hours ago

A two point conversion is a successful run or pass into the opponent's end zone during the Try after a touchdown. The usual NFL starting spot for that choice is the defense's 2 yard line. A touchdown followed by a successful two point conversion produces eight points in total.

Part of Football 101. Explore the guide to choose your next topic.

A two-point conversion is one offensive play from the defense’s 2-yard line after a touchdown. The scoring team earns two additional points if it runs the ball across the goal line or completes a legal catch in the end zone.

The alternative is a one point kick with the snap ordinarily at the 15. The game clock does not run during the Try, although the play clock still governs getting the snap away.

One play, familiar scoring standards

A runner must possess the ball across the goal line before the play becomes dead. A pass receiver must complete the normal NFL catch process in the end zone. Getting two feet down while losing control before completing the catch is not enough.

The condensed field changes strategy. There is little deep space to stretch coverage, so offenses use runs, quick throws, motion, bunches and quarterback movement to create a small advantage. A quarterback sneak can be an option when penalties move the ball close enough.

The defense can score too

A defensive player can return an interception, recovered fumble or qualifying live blocked kick to the opposite end zone for two points. The play does not always end simply because the scoring team's attempt has failed.

A safety during a Try is worth one point to the opponent. That rare result is different from a normal safety during the game, which is worth two.

Penalties and choice of attempt

Fouls can move the spot, replay the attempt or end it, depending on the rule and sequence. After the ball is ready, a penalty or charged timeout can allow the offense to change its choice between kick and run or pass. The enforcement must be applied to the correct Try procedure.

The offense cannot treat a late change as a way to ignore the penalty. Nor does every defensive flag simply move the ball to the 1; the type of foul and original spot matter.

Why go for two?

The score and remaining possessions often control the decision. If a touchdown leaves a team two points behind late, a conversion can tie it. Earlier decisions require judging conversion chances alongside what future scores would mean. Two available points alone do not make the attempt automatically better than the kick.