What are the new NFL overtime rules in 2025?

In 2025, the NFL has implemented new overtime rules that guarantee both teams a possession, even if the first team scores a touchdown. The sudden-death format has been retired, with the only way to end the game on the opening drive being a defensive touchdown or safety.

How do the NFL's 2025 overtime rules differ from college football?

Unlike college football, where overtime periods continue until one team outscores the other, the NFL's 2025 overtime rules feature a 10-minute clock. Both teams get a possession, and the game goes to sudden death if the score is tied after the initial drives.

What impact will the NFL's 2025 overtime changes have on the game?

The league's goal with these new overtime rules is to foster more intrigue and excitement, ensuring both teams have an opportunity to determine the winner on the field. Coaches and players have largely welcomed the changes, acknowledging that the previous sudden-death system was not always fair.

Home / Sports / NFL Overtime Rules Revamped: Touchdown or Bust in 2025

NFL Overtime Rules Revamped: Touchdown or Bust in 2025

29 Sep

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Summary

NFL teams approved new overtime rules in 2025
Both teams now get a possession, ending sudden death
Playoff overtime also aligned with regular season rules

NFL Overtime Rules Revamped: Touchdown or Bust in 2025

As of September 29th, 2025, the NFL has implemented a significant change to its overtime rules. After years of debate and experimentation, the league's teams approved a new format that guarantees both sides a possession in overtime, even if the first team scores a touchdown.

The sudden-death system, where the first team to score would win, has been retired. Now, the only way the opening drive can end the game is if the defense records a pick-six or a safety. Otherwise, the second team will get their chance to match or surpass the first team's score.

This new overtime structure applies to both regular season and playoff games, providing a more consistent experience for fans. Previously, the postseason had slightly different rules, leading to some confusion when high-stakes games went to overtime.