what's the point to the extra point?

Question

I understand the reasoning of the two point conversion. There's some risk of not making it. But why not just give seven points on the touchdown and then let the coach indicate that he wants to try for two points?

Answer 1

Originally, the touchdown was worth 4 points. It was increased to 5, then 6 points. I'm not sure what made them come to the decision, but they decided to make the teams earn that last point with kicking the extra point. I think it had something to do with the increasing popularity of the kickers or kicking field goals.

I can't confirm it, but it seems that the extra point was part of the college rules that the NFL adopted in their first couple decades. I know they had them as early as the twenties.

Answer 2

I am not sure but since football is originally from rugby the kick was always there but they added the 2 point conversion. Besides the kick has to stay cause you can win by a field goal.

Answer 3

The Bengals didn't make the playoffs because they missed an extra point in the final 15 secs of the game. extra points are a pivital part of the game.

Answer 4

I personally think the person that wrote up all the rules for football either went with it because he has a thing for the number 7... OR... he was a very NON-athletic person and felt sorry for those players on football teams so he wanted a position just for them: KICKER.

Answer 5

the extra piont can make a difference in some games cuz u never know whats going to happen

Answer 6

it can make someone a hero, or look like an idiot. in the end, thats what we are after anyway, isnt it?

Answer 7

thats just how the game goes so deal with it