What is a Pick 6 in NFL? A simple guide to this defensive play
A pick 6 (pick six) is a crucial move for the defensive team to shift momentum to their advantage and secure points. The move is common in the NFL because of the fast-paced defensive players. So, what is a pick 6, and how does it happen?
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
The NFL has produced talented athletes with incredible skills and moves, such as scoring a touchdown on a pick 6. The play occurs when a defensive player intercepts the ball and scores a touchdown. We discuss the meaning of pick 6 in football and what it takes to execute it.
What is a pick 6 in football?
It is a defensive play that can alter a game's course. According to Viqtory Sports, it occurs when a defensive player intercepts a pass meant for an attacking player, thus "picking" the ball out of the air.
A touchdown is worth six points, represented by "6." It prevents the offence from progressing and quickly transfers the scoring advantage to the defence.
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Pick vs interception
An interception occurs when a defensive player receives a throw intended for an offensive footballer or opponent. The term "pick" often refers to a more extensive play in which an interception goes straight to a score.
Why do they call it pick 6?
The name "pick 6" refers to the combination of the defensive interception and the six points scored on the return for a touchdown.
It's a memorable term that has spread across football culture, highlighting the turnover and the instant impact on the scoreboard.
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What is a pick 6 in college football?
The rules and execution are identical in the NFL and college football. The style of play is game-changing at both the collegiate and professional levels. It demoralizes the opposition's offence while energizing the defence and spectators.
What is a pick 2 in football?
It occurs after a score with a two-point conversion attempt. The defence receives two points if it intercepts the ball during this conversion attempt and returns it to the opposing end zone. It is less common but may have a significant influence, especially in close games.
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Who has the most pick 6 in the NFL?
According to Pro Football Network, Rod Woodson is the all-time leader with 12 interceptions returned for touchdowns. He is a former NFL cornerback who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers, San Francisco 49ers, Baltimore Ravens, and Oakland Raiders.
Other pick six highest scorers are Darren Sharper and Charles Woodson (11) and Aqib Talib (10). DaRon has the most pick 6s (five) in an NFL season. According to AP News, he recorded his fifth of the 2023 season with a 63-yard strike.
Here is a breakdown of players with the most pick sixes in a season.
| Player | Season | Team | Pick 6 |
| DaRon Bland | 2023 | Dallas Cowboys | 5 |
| Eric Allen | 1993 | Philadelphia Eagles | 4 |
| Jim Kearney | 1972 | Kansas City Chiefs | 4 |
| Ken Houston | 1971 | Houston Oilers | 4 |
Frequently asked questions
Football is a structured game where most players closely adhere to their attacking or defensive responsibilities. In the high-stakes football world, few plays electrify the audience like touchdowns. Here are some commonly asked questions concerning pick six in football.
- Who has the most pick 6 in the NFL? According to AP News, DaRon Bland has the most pick 6s (five) in an NFL season. Bland recorded his fifth of the 2023 season with a 63-yard strike. He previously shared the record with Eric Allen (1993), Ken Houston (1971), and Jim Kearney (1972).
- What is a pick 6 in the NFL? The phrase is derived from "picking" the ball out of the air and taking it from the quarterback. It refers to the points awarded to the defence after the intercepted pass is scored.
- How common is a pick 6 in the NFL? It is less common than other plays since it involves both a good interception and a return for a score without being tackled. However, when it does occur, it is frequently a watershed moment.
- Can a pick 6 happen in college football? Yes, it can occur in both college and pro football. The rules for intercepting and returning a ball for a score are identical at both levels, making it a thrilling play.
- How does a pick 6 affect the game? It can act as a momentum-shifting play since it prevents the offensive from scoring and immediately adds points to the defence's total. This swing can significantly alter the balance of a game, influencing both sides' future strategy.
- What is the longest pick 6 in NFL history? According to Pro-Football Reference, Ed Reed of the Baltimore Ravens has the longest pick six in NFL history. His effort measured 107 yards against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2008.
- Can a pick 6 happen during any pass play? Yes, it can occur on any pass play that results in an interception. It may occur on short throws, long bombs, or even screen passes if the defence correctly assesses the play and has the speed and room to return it for a touchdown.
Understanding what a pick 6 in football is brings a new level of excitement. Whether in the NFL or college football, it is one of the most exciting plays, demonstrating the game's dynamic and unexpected character.
READ ALSO: How many players are on a football team? NFL roster breakdown
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Source: Briefly News
