What it is

A touchdown is scored when a player carries the ball across the opponent’s goal line, or catches it in the end zone. It is worth six points and is the main way to score.

In a game

After a touchdown the scoring team tries for an extra point or a two-point conversion, and then kicks the ball off to the other team.

More detail

A touchdown can also be scored by a defense or special teams, after a turnover, an interception or a kick return. A runner only needs to break the plane of the goal line with the ball, even with just the tip. Officials review close touchdowns on replay.

Animated play

Blue circles are the team with the ball. X marks the other team. The yellow oval is the ball.

1. The offense lines up close to the opponent’s goal line, with the defense packed in front of it.
2. The quarterback hands the ball to the running back, who runs through a gap in the line.
3. Two defenders chase but cannot get him down in time.
4. As soon as the ball crosses the goal line, the play is a touchdown. It does not matter whether the runner is still on his feet. Six points go on the scoreboard.