NFL Overtime Rules, Explained
Tied at the end of regulation? Here's exactly what happens next, in the regular season and the playoffs.
Both teams get the ball, then next score wins
| Regular season | Playoffs | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | One 10-minute period | 15-minute periods until someone wins |
| Possession | Both teams get the ball at least once | Both teams get the ball at least once |
| After that | Next score wins | Next score wins |
| Timeouts | 2 per team | 3 per team (per two periods) |
| Can it end in a tie? | Yes, if still tied after 10 minutes | No |
Since 2025, the regular season uses the same “both teams get the ball” rule the playoffs use. Before that, a touchdown on the first drive ended regular-season games straight away.
HOWHow an overtime plays out
Follow along step by step.
The visiting team's captain calls the toss. The winner usually chooses to receive or kick off. (Many coaches now choose to kick, so they know exactly what they need when their turn comes.)
The receiving team drives. Whatever happens (touchdown, field goal, or nothing), the other team then gets its own possession.
The one exception: if the kicking team's defense scores a safety on that first drive, the kicking team wins immediately.
- If they score more than the first team did, they win.
- If they score less (or nothing), the first team wins.
- If they match it, the game goes to sudden death.
Matching a touchdown means teams often go for two-point conversions to settle it.
After both teams have had the ball, the next score of any kind wins: a field goal, touchdown or safety.
In the regular season, if the 10 minutes run out first, the game ends in a tie. In the playoffs, they keep playing more 15-minute periods.
The NFL's official overtime rules page lays out every edge case.
FAQCommon questions
Can an NFL game end in a tie?
Yes, in the regular season, if it's still tied after the 10-minute overtime. Ties are rare but happen. Playoff games can't tie.
Does a field goal on the first drive win?
No. The other team always gets the ball and can win with a touchdown or tie with a field goal.
How do ties count in the standings?
A tie counts as half a win and half a loss when working out winning percentage.
Is college football overtime the same?
No. College teams alternate possessions starting from the opponent's 25-yard line, and from the third overtime they run two-point attempts only.