{
  "id": 8937586,
  "title": "To kick, or not to kick? NFL's new OT rules leave coaches with tough choice",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/21/to-kick-or-not-to-kick-nfls-new-ot-rules-leave-coaches-with-tough",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-21T14:20:50.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/kick-not-kick-nfls-ot-142050036.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The NFL's new overtime rules have introduced a new level of strategic complexity for coaches, who now must decide whether to kick or not to kick during extra periods. This uncertainty was evident in Week 2 of the 2026 season, as two overtime games featured coin-toss-winning teams adopting different strategies. For the New York Jets, head coach Aaron Glenn opted to take possession first, hoping to control the clock and limit the Green Bay Packers' scoring opportunities. However, this approach ultimately backfired, as the Jets were forced to punt and the Packers ultimately won 20-17 thanks to a 26-yard field goal by rookie Trey Smack. In contrast, Indianapolis Colts head coach Shane Steichen chose to kick off in overtime against the Kansas City Chiefs, aiming to minimize the pressure on his team by giving Patrick Mahomes fewer opportunities to make plays. While Steichen's decision provided a buffer against the Chiefs' high-powered offense, it ultimately proved insufficient, as the Chiefs prevailed 33-30 in overtime. With only 16 regular-season games decided in overtime under the new rules, it remains unclear which strategy will ultimately prove more effective. Meanwhile, in the postseason, teams receiving the ball first have a 2-1 record.",
  "summary": "The NFL's new OT rules have created a decision for coaches about whether to take the ball or play defense first in overtime. Which is the better choice?",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}