Key Takeaways
- The NFL playoff bracket started with 14 teams and will conclude with Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara in February.
- The divisional round of the playoffs has seen its first overtime game, with the Buffalo Bills forcing OT against the Denver Broncos.
- The NFL playoff overtime rules include a 15-minute overtime period, with each team getting a possession and the next score winning if the game is still tied after each team has had a chance to score.
- The NFL playoff schedule includes the wild card round, divisional round, conference championship, and Super Bowl, with the championship game taking place on February 8, 2026.
Introduction to the NFL Playoffs
The National Football League (NFL) playoffs are a thrilling time for football fans, with 14 teams competing for the ultimate prize: the Super Bowl championship. The playoffs began on January 10, 2026, and will conclude on February 8, 2026, with Super Bowl 60 in Santa Clara. The divisional round of the playoffs has already provided some exciting moments, including the first overtime game of the postseason. The Buffalo Bills forced overtime against the Denver Broncos with a late field goal by Matt Prater, marking the sixth overtime playoff game in the last six seasons.
Understanding NFL Playoff Overtime Rules
For those who may be unfamiliar with the NFL playoff overtime rules, here is a breakdown of how it works. If the score is tied after regulation, there is another coin toss to determine which team will receive the ball first in overtime. The overtime period is 15 minutes long, which is longer than the 10-minute overtime period in the regular season. Each team gets three timeouts per half, and each team will have a possession in overtime. However, the game does not automatically end if the first team scores a touchdown. Instead, the game continues until one team is ahead after each team has had a chance to score. The only exception to this rule is if the team that first possesses the ball commits a safety, in which case the kickoff team wins.
NFL Playoff Schedule
The NFL playoff schedule is a busy one, with several games taking place over the course of a few weeks. The wild card round took place from January 10 to January 12, 2026, and the divisional round is currently underway, taking place from January 17 to January 18, 2026. The conference championship games will take place on January 25, 2026, and the Super Bowl will conclude the postseason on February 8, 2026. Fans can stay up-to-date with the latest news and analysis on USA TODAY, which will provide live coverage of the games and expert picks for each matchup.
Expert Analysis and Picks
For fans looking to make informed betting decisions, USA TODAY is offering exclusive expert picks and insights for each game. The site’s experts have a deep understanding of the teams and players, and can provide valuable information to help fans make smart choices. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just looking to get in on the action, USA TODAY’s expert analysis and picks are a great resource to have at your disposal.
Conclusion
The NFL playoffs are an exciting time for football fans, with plenty of action and suspense to go around. With the divisional round already providing some thrilling moments, including the first overtime game of the postseason, fans are in for a treat. By understanding the NFL playoff overtime rules and staying up-to-date with the latest news and analysis, fans can enjoy the games to the fullest. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of one of the teams still in the running or just a casual observer, the NFL playoffs are sure to provide plenty of entertainment and excitement over the next few weeks.