Pick'Em Tiebreaker Rules
Master every tiebreaker format used in NFL Pick'Em pools. Learn total points methods, over/under predictions, closest margin rules, and pool structures. Simulate tiebreakers with real weekly scores to master your strategy.
Interactive Tie Simulation Tool
Select two teams and see how different tiebreaker methods would resolve a tie using real weekly NFL scores.
Step 1: Select Two Teams
Step 2: Tiebreaker Results
Total Points Format
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Over/Under Method
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Closest Margin Format
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Select two different teams to see how tie methods work with real data
Total Points Format
The total points format is the most common Pick'Em tiebreaker method. Participants predict the combined total points scored by both teams in a designated game (usually Monday Night Football or Thursday Night Football).
Contestants submit their prediction before the game starts. The person whose prediction is closest to the actual total without going over wins the tiebreaker. For example, if both players tied with 8 correct picks each, they'd predict the total points. If the game ends 28-24 (52 total), and one predicted 51 and the other predicted 48, the 51 prediction wins as it's closest without going over.
Monitor the two teams' average points scored and allowed. Check if the matchup is between strong defensive teams (lower scoring) or high-octane offenses (higher scoring). Use historical averages and Vegas over/unders as reference points.
Over/Under Method
The Over/Under tiebreaker uses Vegas betting lines to determine the winner. Instead of predicting an exact total, contestants predict whether the combined points will go Over or Under a specific number set by the sportsbooks.
The pool administrator sets a number (typically the Vegas line, like O/U 47.5). Tied players pick whether they think the total will be Over or Under that number. The most common method is closest to the line without going over. For instance, if the line is 47.5 and one player picked Over and it ends 48-21 (69 total), they'd win. If another predicted Under, they'd lose.
Vegas lines are set by professional oddsmakers with millions in liability. Check weather conditions, starting QB status, and recent scoring trends for both teams. High weather or weak offenses typically favor the Under.
Closest Margin Rules
In the closest margin tiebreaker, tied contestants predict the exact point spread or margin of victory. The prediction closest to the actual final margin wins the pool.
Each tied player predicts the margin (e.g., "Home team by 7"). The person whose margin prediction is closest to the actual difference wins. For example, if the final score is 31-24 (home team wins by 7), a prediction of "home by 6" is 1 point off and beats a prediction of "home by 9" which is 2 points off. Some pools only use unsigned margins (don't care which team wins).
Look at the Vegas spread to guide your margin prediction. Strong home favorites often win by smaller margins than the line suggests due to public betting action. Consider the teams' recent close games and their ability to pull away.
Tie Pool Structures
Different pools use different structures for resolving ties and distributing prizes. Here are the most common formats:
Winner-Takes-All
One person wins the entire pot. If multiple tied contestants answer the tiebreaker correctly, the one closest to perfect wins all remaining funds. Common in office pools and competitive leagues.
Best for: High stakes, competitive environments
Equal Split
When two or more contestants tie, they split the remaining prize pool evenly among themselves. No tiebreaker question used. Common in casual leagues and friend groups.
Best for: Casual, friendly competition
Progressive Jackpot
Tied contestants advance to the next round and compete for an increased prize pool. Ties accumulate across weeks, building toward a larger grand prize. Creates suspense throughout the season.
Best for: Season-long engagement
Closest Without Going Over
Contestants predict a number (total points or margin). The person who gets closest without exceeding the actual total wins. If everyone goes over, closest without going over wins. Standard in most pools.
Best for: Fairness and strategy
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Written by Dave Baghi • Updated daily
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