Overtime in American football brings some of the most dramatic moments in sports, but the rules differ significantly between the NFL and college football (NCAA). From sudden death to alternating possessions, here’s a breakdown of how each league determines a winner when the game is tied after regulation.
NFL Overtime Rules
Regular Season vs. Playoffs
- Regular Season:
- Single sudden-death period (10 minutes) – The first team to score wins.
- If neither team scores, the game ends in a tie (except in the playoffs).
- Playoffs:
- Full 15-minute period – Play continues until a winner is decided.
- No ties allowed—multiple overtimes may occur.
Key Mechanics
- Coin Toss: The winner chooses to receive, kick, or pick a side (like in regulation).
- First Possession Scoring:
- Touchdown: Game over (since 2022, no longer “sudden death” if a TD is scored on the opening drive).
- Field Goal: The other team gets a chance to match or win.
- No Score: The next team to score wins.
- Turnovers: If the first team throws an interception or loses a fumble, the opponent can win with any score.
- Two-Point Conversion Rule (Playoffs Only):
- If both teams score touchdowns, the game goes to a 2-point conversion shootout (each team gets one attempt until one succeeds and the other fails).
Criticisms & Changes
- Previously, a field goal on the first drive ended the game, which many felt was unfair.
- The NFL adjusted rules to allow both teams a possession (unless the first team scores a TD).
College Football (NCAA) Overtime Rules
“Kansas Playoff” System
Unlike the NFL, college football uses an alternating possession format starting at the opponent’s 25-yard line.
- No Game Clock: Each team gets one possession per OT.
- Starting Position: The ball is placed at the 25-yard line (no kickoffs).
- Two-Point Rule After 2OT:
- Teams must go for a 2-point conversion after a touchdown starting in the second overtime.
- Alternating 2-Point Shootouts (3OT+):
- From the third overtime, teams alternate 2-point attempts from the 3-yard line (no traditional plays).
Key Differences from the NFL
✅ Both teams always get a possession (no sudden death in early OTs).
✅ More scoring opportunities due to the 25-yard line start.
✅ No ties—play continues until a winner emerges.
Famous Examples
- 2003 Arkansas vs. Kentucky (7OT) – Longest FBS game (now capped at 2OT in regular season).
- 2018 Texas A&M vs. LSU (7OT, 74-72) – Highest-scoring FBS game.
Which System is Better?
NFL: More Strategic, But Controversial
- Pros: Faster resolutions, rewards strong defenses.
- Cons: Criticized for being unfair if one team never gets the ball.
NCAA: More Exciting, But Drawn Out
- Pros: Guarantees both teams a chance, creates epic shootouts.
- Cons: Games can last too long, fatigue becomes a factor.
While the NFL prioritizes efficiency (especially in the regular season), college football embraces drama and fairness with its possession-based system. Both have evolved over time—NFL rules now prevent quick field goal wins, while the NCAA has shortened OT in the regular season to reduce player strain.
Next time you see an overtime game, you’ll know exactly why NFL and college football handle it so differently—and which system you prefer!
