Understanding the Basics of a Safety
A safety in American football is a defensive scoring play that awards two points to the defending team. It’s a relatively rare occurrence, but when it happens, it can significantly impact the outcome of a game.
“A safety is more than just two points; it’s a momentum shift.”
1. Safety (gridiron football score) – Wikipedia
How to Score a Safety
There are primarily three ways a safety can be scored:
Tackled in the End Zone
The most common method is when an offensive player is tackled in their own end zone by a defensive player. This results in a safety for the defensive team.
Forced Out of Bounds in the End Zone
If an offensive player is forced out of bounds in their own end zone, it also results in a safety for the defense.
Penalty in the End Zone
If the offense commits a penalty in their own end zone, it can result in a safety. This is less common but can occur.
Comparison of Safety Scoring in American Football and Canadian Football
- “Tackled in the end zone? That’s a safety! A crucial play in the game of football.”
| Category | American Football: Safety | Canadian Football: Safety Touch |
| 1. Ball Carrier Action | Tackled or forced out of bounds in his own end zone. | The ball becomes dead in the goal area of the team in possession of the ball. |
| 2. Dead Ball | Ball becomes dead in the end zone, except for an incomplete forward pass, with the defending team responsible for it being there. | Ball touches or crosses the dead line or sideline in goal after being directed into the goal area by the team scored against or due to a blocked scrimmage kick. |
| 3. Offensive Foul | Offense commits a foul in its own end zone. | Ball carrier penalized for intentional grounding or an offside pass in his own goal area. |
The Impact of a Safety
A safety has two primary impacts on the game:
Points Awarded
“Safeties are the unsung heroes of football, often overlooked but always impactful.”
The most obvious impact is the awarding of two points to the defensive team. While this may not seem like a significant amount compared to a touchdown, it can be crucial in close games.
Possession Change
After a safety, the ball is kicked off from the 20-yard line of the team that scored the safety. This gives the defensive team possession and a chance to score points of their own.
scoring plays in football
| Scoring Type | Points Awarded | Conditions for Scoring |
| Touchdown | 6 Points | – Ball crosses the opponent’s goal line while in possession of a runner. – Airborne runner has possession, and ball passes over or inside the pylon. – Player touches the pylon with the ball without prior body contact (except hands or feet). – Player inbounds catches or recovers a loose ball on or behind the opponent’s goal line. – Referee awards due to a palpably unfair act. |
| Field Goal | 3 Points | – Placekick or dropkick from behind the line of scrimmage or spot of a fair catch. – The ball must pass through the goal (between the uprights and above the crossbar) without touching the ground or an offensive player. |
| Safety | 2 Points | – Offense commits a foul in its own end zone. – Ball is sent behind the goal line by a team’s impetus, becoming dead in the end zone or out of bounds behind the goal line. |
| Try | 1 or 2 Points | – 1 Point: Scored via a Field Goal or Safety after a touchdown. – 2 Points: Scored via a Touchdown after a touchdown. |
Safety vs. Touchdown: What’s the Difference?
While both are scoring plays, a safety and a touchdown are vastly different. A touchdown is worth six points and is scored when an offensive player carries the ball into the opponent’s end zone or catches a pass there. A safety, on the other hand, is worth two points and is scored by the defense when the offense is forced into their own end zone.
Famous Safety Plays
There have been some memorable safety plays throughout NFL history, often referred to as “game-changers.” One of the most famous is the “Immaculate Safety,” where a defensive player tackled the quarterback in the end zone on the final play of the game to secure a victory.
Top 11 Greatest NFL Safeties of All Time:
11. Emlen Tunnell:
First Black player signed by the Giants and inducted into the Hall of Fame. Known for his 79 interceptions and kick return skills.
10. John Lynch:
Renowned for his success both on the field and off, with a significant impact in Tampa Bay and Denver. Known for his big plays and 9 Pro Bowl selections.
9. Johnny Robinson:
Key player for the Dallas Texans/Kansas City Chiefs. Notable for his 57 interceptions and contribution to the Chiefs’ first Super Bowl win.
8. Cliff Harris:
Known as “Captain Crash” for his hard-hitting style. Played in 5 Super Bowls and guided the Cowboys to consistent top-10 defenses.
7. Donnie Shell:
Integral to the Steelers’ success during the Steel Curtain era. First strong safety to surpass 50 interceptions.
6. Larry Wilson:
Pioneered the safety blitz and was a dominant force for the St. Louis Cardinals with 7 first- or second-team all-league honors.
5. Brian Dawkins:
Renowned for his intensity and leadership with the Eagles and Broncos. Selected to 9 Pro Bowls and 5 All-Pro teams.
4. Troy Polamalu:
Known for his versatility and game-changing plays with the Steelers, including two Super Bowl titles.
3. Kenny Houston:
Dominated as the premier strong safety of the 1970s, with 12 Pro Bowls and famous for a game-saving tackle in 1973.
2. Ed Reed:
Second all-time in interceptions among safeties, known for his intelligence and playmaking abilities with the Ravens.
1. Ronnie Lott:
The greatest safety of all time, known for his versatility and ferocity, with 4 Super Bowl titles and 9 postseason interceptions.
Chart: Top 11 NFL Safeties of All Time
| Rank | Player | Teams | Key Achievements |
| 1 | Ronnie Lott | 49ers, Raiders, Jets, Chiefs | 4 Super Bowls, 10 Pro Bowls, 63 INTs, Most feared player |
| 2 | Ed Reed | Ravens, Texans, Jets | 9 Pro Bowls, 6 All-Pro, 61 INTs, Super Bowl XLVII winner, Defensive POY (2004) |
| 3 | Kenny Houston | Oilers, Washington | 12 Pro Bowls, 12 All-Pro selections, NFL 75th & 100th Anniversary Teams |
| 4 | Troy Polamalu | Steelers | 8 Pro Bowls, 4 All-Pro, 2 Super Bowls, Defensive POY (2010) |
| 5 | Brian Dawkins | Eagles, Broncos | 9 Pro Bowls, 5 All-Pro, Eagles 75th Anniversary Team |
| 6 | Larry Wilson | Cardinals | 8 Pro Bowls, 7 All-Pro, Innovated safety blitz |
| 7 | Donnie Shell | Steelers | 5 Pro Bowls, 51 INTs, 4 Super Bowls, First SS to 50 INTs |
| 8 | Cliff Harris | Cowboys | 5 Super Bowls, 2 Titles, “Captain Crash”, Guided top-10 defenses in each season |
| 9 | Johnny Robinson | Texans/Chiefs | 7 Pro Bowls, Super Bowl IV win, 57 INTs |
| 10 | John Lynch | Buccaneers, Broncos | 9 Pro Bowls, Super Bowl XXXVII winner, Ring of Honor in Tampa & Denver |
| 11 | Emlen Tunnell | Giants, Packers | 9 Pro Bowls, 79 INTs, First Black NFL player in Hall of Fame |
Tips for Understanding Safeties
To better understand safeties, keep these tips in mind:
“Understanding the nuances of a safety can elevate your football knowledge to a new level.”
Watch the End Zone
Pay close attention to what’s happening in the end zone, especially when the offense is near their own goal line. This is where safeties are most likely to occur.
Pay Attention to Penalties
Penalties can lead to unexpected outcomes, including safeties. Understanding the penalty rules can help you better appreciate when a safety is called.
By following these tips, you’ll be well-equipped to understand and appreciate the impact of safeties on NFL games.
The Importance of Safeties in NFL Strategy
While safeties may not occur as frequently as touchdowns, they play a crucial role in NFL strategy. Defensive coordinators often design game plans to force opponents into making mistakes that could lead to safeties. This can put pressure on the opposing offense and potentially shift momentum in the game.
Additionally, special teams units can also contribute to safeties. A blocked punt or field goal attempt that results in a safety can be a significant turning point.
Conclusion of What is NFL safety point?
The safety, though a less common occurrence than a touchdown, is a pivotal play in American football. It not only awards points to the defensive team but also changes possession, potentially shifting the momentum of the game. Understanding the intricacies of a safety, from how it’s scored to its strategic implications, can significantly enhance your viewing experience. So, the next time you watch an NFL game, keep a close eye on the end zone and appreciate the defensive prowess displayed when a safety is achieved.
FAQs
What happens if a player steps out of the end zone on their own accord?
If a player voluntarily steps out of the end zone, it’s considered a touchback, and the ball is placed at the 20-yard line of the defending team.
Can a safety be returned for points?
No, a safety cannot be returned for points. Once the offensive player is tackled or forced out of bounds in the end zone, the play is over, and two points are awarded to the defense.
Can multiple safeties be scored in one possession?
Yes, it’s theoretically possible to score multiple safeties in one possession. If the offense commits multiple penalties in their own end zone or is tackled multiple times, it could result in consecutive safeties. However, this is extremely rare.
Is a safety considered a turnover?
No, a safety is not considered a turnover. A turnover occurs when the offensive team loses possession of the ball to the defense through an interception, fumble, or downs.
How does a safety affect the clock?
A safety stops the clock. The ensuing kickoff will start the clock again.
