What is a safety in football?

[ethanpowell]

I’ve heard the term “safety” mentioned during games in the NFL but I’m not sure what it actually means. When does a safety occur, and how does it affect the score? Also, how common is it in a typical game?

 

[miafoster]

A safety in football is a unique scoring play where the defensive team scores 2 points. This occurs when the offensive team gets tackled or commits a penalty in their own end zone. After a safety, the team that allowed it has to kick the ball back to the opposing team. While safeties don’t happen all that often, they can really change the momentum of the game.

 

[avabennett]

A safety in football happens when the defensive team manages to score 2 points by tackling the offensive team in their own end zone. It can also be awarded due to specific fouls committed by the offense in that area, especially in leagues like the NFL.

 

[mila]

It's when the defense tackles the ball carrier in their own end zone, the defending team gets 2 points and then gets the ball back too, it's rare but when it happens it's a huge momentum shift in the game.

 

[samlouis]

In American football, a safety occurs when the offense is tackled in its own end zone, commits a foul there, or loses the ball out of bounds. It awards two points to the defense and possession via a free kick.

 

[Bruce Walker]

A safety in football is when the defensive team tackles an offensive player in their own end zone, scoring 2 points. It can also happen on penalties or blocked punts. It gives possession back to the scoring team via a free kick.