How Does High School Football Overtime Work?
High school football games are known for their intense competition and thrilling moments. Occasionally, a game may end in a tie at the end of regulation play, leading to overtime. Overtime rules in high school football can vary depending on the state and the league. In this article, we will explore the general guidelines for high school football overtime and answer some common questions.
1. What is high school football overtime?
High school football overtime is an additional period of play that occurs when a game ends in a tie after regulation.
2. How long is each overtime period?
In most high school football leagues, each overtime period is typically 10 minutes long.
3. How many overtime periods are allowed?
The number of overtime periods can vary depending on the league, but it is usually no more than two or three.
4. What happens during overtime?
During overtime, each team gets an opportunity to possess the ball and attempt to score from a designated starting point on the field.
5. How is the starting point determined?
The starting point for each team in overtime is often determined a coin toss. The winner of the coin toss can choose whether to start on offense or defense or choose which end zone to defend.
6. How does each team possess the ball?
Each team gets a chance to possess the ball and attempt to score from the opponent’s 10-yard line. They have four downs to either score a touchdown or gain a first down.
7. What happens if a team scores a touchdown?
If a team scores a touchdown during their possession, they are awarded six points. They then have the option to attempt an extra point kick or go for a two-point conversion.
8. What happens if a team fails to score a touchdown but gains a first down?
If a team fails to score a touchdown but gains a first down, they are awarded a new set of four downs to continue their possession.
9. What happens if a team fails to score a touchdown or gain a first down after their four downs?
If a team fails to score a touchdown or gain a first down after their four downs, the opposing team takes possession at the 10-yard line and has an opportunity to score.
10. What happens if both teams score the same number of points in overtime?
If both teams score the same number of points in an overtime period, another overtime period is played until a winner is determined.
11. Can a team score a field goal in overtime?
Yes, a team can score a field goal during their possession in overtime. It is worth three points.
12. What happens if the game is still tied after the allotted number of overtime periods?
If the game is still tied after the allotted number of overtime periods, some leagues may consider the game a tie. However, others may have additional tiebreaker rules, such as using a “Kansas Playoff” or “Sudden Death” format, to determine a winner.
13. Are there any differences in overtime rules between states?
Yes, there can be differences in overtime rules between states. Some states may follow the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) guidelines, while others may have their own specific rules.
14. Are there any restrictions on the types of plays allowed in overtime?
No, there are no specific restrictions on the types of plays allowed in overtime. Teams can utilize both running and passing plays to advance the ball and score.
In conclusion, high school football overtime offers an exciting and intense conclusion to games that end in a tie after regulation. With each team getting an opportunity to possess the ball and score, the game can continue until a winner is determined. While there may be slight variations in the rules across different states, the general guidelines remain consistent. Overtime in high school football adds an extra layer of drama and suspense to an already thrilling sport.
