What is the penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct after a touchdown?

When a player commits unsportsmanlike conduct after scoring a touchdown, the penalty is assessed as a 15-yard penalty that is enforced on the subsequent kickoff. This specific enforcement reflects the seriousness of unsportsmanlike conduct, which is considered a violation of the spirit of the game.

By applying the penalty on the kickoff, it impacts the opposing team's field position for the subsequent play while also reinforcing sportsmanship among players. This enforcement also serves as a deterrent to such behavior, emphasizing that unsportsmanlike actions will have consequences that affect the team’s ability to execute a successful kickoff immediately after a scoring play.

In contrast, enforcing it on the next play or from the point of the touchdown would not have the same effect, as it would alter the immediate aftermath of the scoring play instead of impacting the kickoff, which is an essential phase for both teams. Thus, the correct choice emphasizes the structured penalties designed to maintain fairness and sportsmanship in the game.