For avid crossword enthusiasts, the New York Times (NYT) Crossword is a daily ritual, a challenging puzzle that stretches the mind and provides a sense of accomplishment. Among the myriad of clues that solvers encounter, sports-themed entries often add an exciting twist, especially for fans of football. One such clue that has intrigued many is the “Post Touchdown Attempt.” This article delves into the possible answers to this clue and explores the context within the world of football.
Understanding the Clue
The clue “Post Touchdown Attempt” refers to the actions that a team takes immediately after scoring a touchdown in a football game. There are primarily two types of attempts made after a touchdown:
- Extra Point (PAT)
- Two-Point Conversion
These terms are commonly used in football terminology, making them prime candidates for crossword answers.
Possible Answers Explained
1. PAT (Point After Touchdown)
- Length: 3 letters
- Explanation: After a team scores a touchdown, they can kick the ball from the opponent’s 15-yard line. If the kick is successful, they earn one extra point, commonly referred to as a PAT. This is a frequent entry in crossword puzzles due to its short length and relevance to the clue.
2. KICK
- Length: 4 letters
- Explanation: The action of kicking the ball for the extra point attempt. While not as common as PAT, it is still a plausible answer depending on the puzzle’s structure.
3. TRY
- Length: 3 letters
- Explanation: In some contexts, especially in Canadian football and rugby, the term “try” is used to refer to attempts made after scoring. Though less common in American football terminology, it might occasionally appear in crosswords.
4. EXTRA
- Length: 5 letters
- Explanation: Refers to the extra point attempt after a touchdown. This is a straightforward answer that fits well within the clue’s context.
5. POINT
- Length: 5 letters
- Explanation: This can refer to the extra point scored after a touchdown. It’s a slightly more indirect answer but can fit in certain crossword grids.
Strategy for Solving the Clue
When encountering the “Post Touchdown Attempt” clue in the NYT Crossword, here are some strategies to determine the correct answer:
- Check the Length: The number of squares provided for the answer will significantly narrow down the possibilities.
- Cross-Referencing: Look at intersecting clues to see if any letters from those answers can help deduce the correct term.
- Football Knowledge: Having a basic understanding of football terminology will aid in quickly identifying potential answers.
- Common Answers: Be aware of frequently used crossword answers related to sports, as certain terms like PAT are regularly seen in puzzles due to their brevity and relevance.
Conclusion
The “Post Touchdown Attempt” clue in the NYT Crossword is a fascinating blend of sports knowledge and puzzle-solving skills. With possible answers like PAT, KICK, TRY, EXTRA, and POINT, solvers must draw on their understanding of football and crossword strategies to crack the code. As always, the key to mastering such clues lies in practice, patience, and a love for both the game and the puzzle. Happy solving!
