NFL Playoff OT rule change

Overtime rules for playoff games modified by league

The NFL has changed the rules governing its overtime playoff games, eliminating the chance for a team to win with a field goal on their first possession, a league spokesman said on Tuesday.

Starting next season, the team with the first possession in overtime would have to score a touchdown to end the game. But if they only manage a field goal then the opposing team will get a chance to end the game by scoring a touchdown.

If both teams score field goals on their first possession, or fail to score, then classic sudden-death rules would come into effect, with the next team to score winning the game.

Last season, the New Orleans Saints advanced to the NFL's championship game after winning the coin toss in overtime and nailing a 40-yard field goal on their first drive, ending the Minnesota Vikings' season.

NFL owners voted 28-4 in favor of the proposal, according to the league's website. (www.nfl.com)

In the college version of American football, both teams are allowed at least one possession in overtime.

about 2 years ago Escher 4 comments 0 recs |

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I dig it.

by octoberty on Mar 23, 2010 4:33 PM CDT reply actions

BS

If you are going to do it, do it for all the games.

"I was going to say, 'You’re gay for Elvis.' But then I realized that I, too, am gay for Elvis." ~Adam J. Morris.

by Kinslerhomer on Mar 23, 2010 4:45 PM CDT reply actions

just

have an extra period of 5 mins

by icouldusesomebaseball on Mar 23, 2010 4:54 PM CDT reply actions

5 minutes is not nearly enough

a team could easily kill that with one drive, and I imagine if they are not going to score they will do everything to kill the clock rather than give the ball to the other team. A tie is better than a loss.

Go Rangers! Go Cowboys! Go FSU!

by tdi1985 on Mar 24, 2010 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions