The NFL uses a detailed set of tiebreaker rules to determine which teams qualify for the playoffs when two or more clubs finish the regular season with the same record. These rules decide division champions, wild card teams, and ultimately who makes the postseason.
This guide breaks down all NFL playoff tiebreakers, explains how they work, and clarifies common questions fans have during close playoff races.
How NFL Playoff Spots Are Determined
NFL teams are first ranked by win–loss record. If teams are tied, the league applies tiebreakers in a specific order. The process differs slightly depending on whether the tie is between:
- Teams in the same division
- Teams competing for wild card spots from different divisions
Division winners automatically qualify for the playoffs, regardless of wild card records.
NFL Division Tiebreakers (Same Division)
These tiebreakers are used to determine division champions:
- Head-to-head record
- Division record (games played within the division)
- Record in common games (minimum of four)
- Conference record
- Strength of victory (combined record of teams defeated)
- Strength of schedule (combined record of all opponents)
- Conference points scored vs. points allowed
- Overall points scored vs. points allowed
- Net points in all games
- Net touchdowns
- Coin toss
NFL Wild Card Tiebreakers (Different Divisions)
These rules determine which teams earn the three wild card spots per conference:
- Head-to-head record (if applicable)
- Conference record
- Record in common games (minimum of four)
- Strength of victory
- Strength of schedule
- Conference points scored vs. points allowed
- Overall points scored vs. points allowed
- Net points in all games
- Net touchdowns
- Coin toss
How Multi-Team NFL Ties Are Broken
When three or more teams are tied:
- The NFL first applies division tiebreakers to eliminate teams.
- Once one team is separated, wild card tiebreakers are applied to the remaining teams.
- This step-by-step elimination continues until playoff positions are filled.
What Is Strength of Victory in the NFL?
Strength of victory measures the combined win–loss record of all teams a club defeated. Beating stronger opponents increases this metric and can play a crucial role late in the season.
Can NFL Playoff Spots Be Decided by a Coin Toss?
Yes, but it is extremely rare. A coin toss is the final tiebreaker if all statistical measures fail to separate teams. The rule exists to ensure a definitive outcome.
Key Takeaways on NFL Playoff Tiebreakers
- Win–loss record always comes first
- Division champions are guaranteed playoff spots
- Conference and common-game performance matter more than total points early in the process
- Strength of schedule and strength of victory often decide tight races
- Coin tosses are possible but unlikely
Why NFL Tiebreakers Matter
Late-season games can dramatically shift playoff odds. A single conference win, division matchup, or victory over a strong opponent can be the difference between making the playoffs or missing out.
Understanding NFL tiebreakers helps fans, analysts, and bettors better evaluate playoff scenarios as the season unfolds.