Overtime in the NFL: A History of Change

2022 Season Overtime Statistics

The 2022 NFL season saw a slight decrease in the number of games that went into overtime, with 20 games requiring extra time compared to 21 in 2021. This statistic highlights the unpredictable nature of the NFL and the importance of every play.

NFL Overtime Rule Changes

The NFL's overtime rules have undergone several changes over the years, with the most recent amendment coming in 2022. In 2017, the league modified the rules, and in 2023, a new rule was introduced to ensure a more balanced and exciting postseason.

2023 Postseason Overtime Rule

The new overtime rule implemented in the 2023 postseason aims to reduce the likelihood of sudden death endings and give both teams a fair chance to score. The rule ensures that each team gets an opportunity to possess the ball at least once, providing more excitement and uncertainty to the extra period.

Overtime Duration in the NFL

In the regular season, overtime lasts for 10 minutes. If neither team scores during this time, the game ends in a tie. In the postseason, overtime is sudden death, meaning the first team to score wins the game. Double overtime is not possible in the playoffs.