In the context of professional football wagering, an “octopus” refers to when a single player scores both the touchdown and the ensuing two-point conversion on the same play. This uncommon occurrence earns its distinctive name from the eight total points scored, mirroring the number of appendages possessed by the marine creature. For example, if a running back crosses the goal line for a touchdown and then immediately scores the two-point conversion on the subsequent play, that player has successfully executed this specific scoring play.
The significance of this specific play lies in its relative rarity. While touchdowns are a frequent occurrence in the sport, the decision to attempt a two-point conversion is far less common, typically arising from specific game situations such as late-game deficits or strategic coaching decisions. Successfully executing the two-point conversion immediately following a touchdown, by the same player, elevates the play to a noteworthy event, increasing excitement for both fans and bettors following the progress of the game in real-time. The existence of prop bets on such occurrences reflects its growing popularity within the realm of wagering.
