College football is known for its high-stakes drama, and overtime is where games often reach their most thrilling moments. If you’ve ever wondered just how many overtimes can occur in a college football game, here’s a breakdown of the rules governing this intense period of play.
Understanding College Football Overtime Rules
Unlike professional football, where ties are possible, college football ensures a winner is decided, even if it takes multiple overtime periods. The overtime rules are designed to maintain fairness while encouraging swift resolutions.
Here’s how it works:
- First Overtime Period:
- Each team gets one possession starting at the opponent’s 25-yard line.
- Teams can score via a touchdown, field goal, or fail to score.
- The opposing team gets the same opportunity.
- If the game remains tied after both teams have had a possession, it moves to the next overtime period.
- Second Overtime Period:
- Same format as the first overtime.
- However, teams must attempt a two-point conversion after scoring a touchdown.
- Third Overtime Period and Beyond:
- Starting in the third overtime, teams no longer start possessions at the 25-yard line.
- Instead, the game transitions to alternating two-point conversion attempts. Each team has one play from the 3-yard line to score.
Is There a Limit to the Number of Overtimes?
No, there’s no maximum number of overtime periods in college football. Play continues until one team outscores the other in a given overtime round. This has led to some epic games lasting multiple overtimes.
For instance, in 2021, Illinois and Penn State battled through nine overtimes, setting a record for the most in NCAA history. Illinois eventually emerged victorious, showcasing the endurance and determination of college athletes.
Why the Rule Change?
The NCAA implemented the two-point conversion format starting in the third overtime in 2021 to reduce player fatigue and injury risks. Previous formats allowed for longer possessions, leading to marathon games that could strain players physically.
Why College Football Overtime Is Unique
College football’s overtime format differs significantly from the NFL. While the NFL emphasizes sudden death in overtime, college football ensures each team has an equal chance to score, making it one of the most exciting and fair systems in sports.
The Spirit of Overtime
For fans, overtime represents the essence of college football: grit, strategy, and unpredictability. Whether it’s a quick resolution in one overtime or an unforgettable multi-overtime classic, college football overtime guarantees excitement until the final play.