College football overtime works differently from the NFL, using alternating possessions and, beginning in later overtimes, mandatory 2-point conversion attempts. The NCAA updated the system to improve fairness, reduce marathon games, and simplify late-game strategy. Here is a complete, up-to-date guide to how college football overtime works.
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How College Football Overtime Works
Teams Alternate Possessions From the 25-Yard Line
Overtime in college football is not timed. Instead of a 15-minute period, each team gets one possession starting at the opponent’s 25-yard line.
- Team A gets the ball at the 25.
- Team B gets the ball at the 25. If the score is tied after both possessions, the game moves to another overtime period.
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Newer Overtime Rules: Mandatory 2-Point Attempts
The NCAA updated the format to reduce ultra-long games like the 7OT classics of the past.
Starting in 2nd Overtime: Teams Must Go for Two
If a team scores a touchdown in the second overtime, they are not allowed to kick an extra point.
Only a 2-point conversion attempt is permitted.
Starting in 3rd Overtime: 2-Point Shootout
Beginning with the third overtime, possessions are replaced entirely by alternating one-play, 2-point conversion attempts.
Teams take turns running a single 2-point play:
- If both convert → continue
- If both fail → continue
- If one converts and the other fails → game ends
This continues until a winner is determined.
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Can the Defense Score?
During the traditional possession overtimes (OT1 and OT2):
- A defensive touchdown (interception return or fumble return) wins the game immediately.
During the 2-point conversion shootout (OT3+):
- A defensive turnover results in the play being blown dead.
- The defense cannot return the ball for points.
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Timeout Rules
Each team receives one timeout per overtime period.
Timeouts do not roll over into the next overtime.
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Common Questions
Is there a game clock in overtime?
No. There is no quarter length. Only the regular 40-second play clock is used.
Is it sudden death?
No. Because both teams are guaranteed a possession, overtime is not true sudden death — except for defensive scores in early overtimes.
What determines who gets the ball first?
A coin toss before the first overtime. The loser of the toss chooses first in the second overtime.
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Conclusion
College football overtime is designed to provide equal opportunities, ensure player safety, and create a decisive finish. The mandatory 2-point attempts in later overtimes keep games exciting while preventing excessively long contests. Whether you’re watching a rivalry showdown or a bowl game, understanding these rules makes every high-pressure overtime moment easier to follow.