NFL Overtime Rules Explained: Regular Season vs. Playoffs
Both teams now get the ball in overtime, but regular season and playoff rules still differ. Here is the full breakdown.
NFL overtime used to be simple: first score wins. After years of complaints that the coin toss decided too many games, the league changed the rules so both teams get a chance with the ball.
Regular Season Overtime
- Length: one 10 minute period
- Coin toss: the visiting captain calls it, and the winner chooses to kick or receive
- Possessions: both teams are guaranteed a possession, a rule that was extended to the regular season starting in 2025
- After both possess: the next score wins
- Still tied after 10 minutes? The game ends in a tie
Playoff Overtime
- Length: full 15 minute periods
- Possessions: both teams are guaranteed a possession, a rule introduced for the playoffs in 2022
- After both possess: sudden death, next score wins
- No ties: periods continue until there is a winner
Exceptions to the Guaranteed Possession
If the defense scores on the first possession, through a safety or a returned turnover, the game ends immediately.
Strategy Changes
Because both teams get the ball, some coaches now prefer to kick off first. If the opponent scores, they know exactly what they need. If the opponent fails, a field goal can win it.
Curious how the bracket works? Read our NFL playoff format guide.
Background from Wikipedia
Overtime (sports)
Overtime (OT) or extra time (ET) is a tie-breaking method used in various sports. If the scores are equal after the regular period of play has ended, an additional period of play - the 'overtime' or 'extra time' period - is contested to determine the winner. In some sports, this extra period is played only if the game is required to have a clear winner, as in single-elimination tournaments where only one team or player can advance to the next round or win the tournament and replays are not allowed.
The rules of overtime or extra time vary between sports and even different competitions.
Text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Frequently Asked Questions
Do both teams get the ball in NFL overtime?
Yes. Both teams are guaranteed a possession in overtime in the regular season and the playoffs, unless the defense scores a safety or a touchdown on the opening possession.
Can an NFL game end in a tie?
Yes, in the regular season. If the score is still tied after the 10 minute overtime period, the game ends in a tie. Playoff games cannot end in a tie.
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