In college football, a safety is one of the most unique and impactful scoring plays in the game. While it only adds two points to the scoreboard, a safety can dramatically swing momentum because it also gives the scoring team possession of the ball.
Below is a complete breakdown of what a safety is in college football, how it happens, and why it matters.
What Is a Safety in College Football?
A safety occurs when the offensive team is responsible for the ball becoming dead in its own end zone. When this happens, the defensive team is awarded two points.
Unlike touchdowns or field goals, a safety is one of the only ways the defense can score directly.
How Does a Safety Happen?
A safety can be called in several situations, all involving the offense inside its own end zone:
1. Tackle in the End Zone
If a ball carrier (quarterback, running back, or receiver) is tackled in their own end zone, it results in a safety.
2. Stepping Out of Bounds
If the offensive player with possession steps out of bounds while in their own end zone, the defense is awarded a safety.
3. Offensive Penalty in the End Zone
Certain fouls by the offense in its own end zone result in a safety, including:
- Holding
- Intentional grounding
- Illegal blocks
4. Ball Leaves the End Zone
A safety is also awarded if the offense:
- Fumbles the ball out of bounds in its own end zone
- Snaps the ball out of the end zone
How Many Points Is a Safety Worth in College Football?
A safety is worth 2 points.
While it’s the lowest single scoring play in football, its real value comes from what happens next.
What Happens After a Safety?
After a safety is scored:
- The defensive team receives 2 points
- The team that allowed the safety must kick the ball to the scoring team
- In college football, this is a free kick from the 20-yard line
This means the defense not only scores but also gains possession, often with favorable field position.
Safety vs. Touchback in College Football
A common point of confusion is the difference between a safety and a touchback:
- Safety: The offense is responsible for the ball becoming dead in its own end zone → 2 points for the defense
- Touchback: The defense causes the ball to enter the end zone and become dead → No points, ball comes out to the 25-yard line
Responsibility for the ball’s movement is the key distinction.
Why Safeties Are So Important
Even though safeties are rare, they matter because they:
- Shift momentum instantly
- Combine points and possession
- Often result from dominant defensive pressure
- Can decide close games, especially late
Final Thoughts
A safety in college football is a two-point defensive scoring play that occurs when the offense makes a critical mistake in its own end zone. While uncommon, safeties are among the most impactful plays in the sport due to the combination of points, field position, and momentum.