NFL Overtime Rules
How Does NFL Overtime Work?
NFL overtime is a sudden death period that is played if a game is tied at the end of regulation. The period consists of 10 minutes, with the first team to score winning the game. If neither team scores in the first 10 minutes, the game will go into a second overtime period. The second overtime period also consists of 10 minutes, with the first team to score winning the game. If neither team scores in the second overtime period, then the game will end in a tie.
What Are the Basic Rules of NFL Overtime?
- The first team to score wins the game.
- The team that receives the opening kickoff in overtime gets the ball first.
- The team that has the ball in overtime can score a touchdown, field goal, or safety to win the game.
- If neither team scores in the first 10 minutes, the game will go into a second overtime period.
- There is no sudden death in the second overtime period. If neither team scores in the second overtime period, the game will end in a tie.
What Are Some of the Key Strategies for NFL Overtime?
NFL overtime is a crucial period of the game, and there are several key strategies that teams can use to win. Some of the most important strategies include:
- Winning the coin toss: The team that wins the coin toss in overtime has the option of receiving the ball first or deferring to the second half. In most cases, it is better to receive the ball first, as this gives the team a chance to score a touchdown and win the game without giving the other team a chance to possess the ball.
- Establishing the running game: Running the ball is a good way to control the clock and keep the other team's offense off the field. In overtime, it is especially important to establish the running game, as this will help the team to wear down the other team's defense and create scoring opportunities.
- Taking smart risks: Overtime is a time to take some risks, as the team that is behind needs to score points to win. However, it is important to take smart risks and not make mistakes that could cost the team the game.
What Are Some of the Most Notable NFL Overtime Games?
There have been many notable NFL overtime games throughout history. Some of the most memorable include:
- AFC Championship Game: Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Oilers (1992): This game is considered to be one of the greatest NFL games of all time. The Bills trailed 35-3 in the fourth quarter, but they came back to win 41-38 in overtime. The game is best known for Frank Reich's comeback drive, which included a 76-yard touchdown pass to Andre Reed with just seconds remaining in regulation.
- Super Bowl XLII: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots (2008): This game is considered to be one of the greatest Super Bowls of all time. The Giants defeated the undefeated Patriots 17-14 in overtime on a field goal by Lawrence Tynes. The game is best known for David Tyree's "Helmet Catch," which helped set up the Giants' game-winning field goal.
- NFC Divisional Round: New Orleans Saints vs. Minnesota Vikings (2010): This game is considered to be one of the most exciting NFL playoff games of all time. The Saints defeated the Vikings 31-28 in overtime on a touchdown pass from Drew Brees to Lance Moore. The game is best known for the "Minneapolis Miracle," which saw the Vikings score a touchdown on the final play of regulation to tie the game.
Conclusion
NFL overtime is a sudden death period that is played if a game is tied at the end of regulation. The period consists of 10 minutes, with the first team to score winning the game. If neither team scores in the first 10 minutes, the game will go into a second overtime period. The second overtime period also consists of 10 minutes, with the first team to score winning the game. If neither team scores in the second overtime period, then the game will end in a tie.
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