Baker Mayfield Questions Overtime Rule Again After Chiefs Game Favored Mahomes | NFL Wires

Baker Mayfield Questions Overtime Rule Again After Chiefs Game Favored Mahomes | NFL Wires

After Tampa Bay’s overtime loss to Kansas City, Baker Mayfield raised concerns over the NFL's sudden-death OT rule. Here’s why he’s changed his tune—and what it could mean for a rule update.

Introduction: A Change of Heart from Mayfield

Former Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield is doubling down on criticism of the NFL’s overtime rule following Tampa Bay’s recent loss to the Chiefs. While initially voicing frustration over not attempting a two-point conversion, Mayfield has now targeted the league’s coin-toss-based OT system—saying it gave Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City an unfair advantage once again.

Mayfield Voices His Concerns

In November 2024, after the Bucs scored late in regulation against Kansas City, Mayfield clarified that he hadn’t lobbied for a two-point attempt, but remained upset with the rule favoring the coin-flip winner.

He said:

“I’m not a fan of the overtime rules… Obviously, it’s gotten us twice now…”

 

Mayfield added that losing the OT toss was “really the disappointing part,” especially knowing the Chiefs often score first in OT due to Mahomes’ ability to lead fast breaks.

Why the OT Rule Faces Criticism

Under the current NFL overtime format, each game begins with a sudden-death structure: the first team to score a touchdown on its opening possession wins. The risk? The team that wins the coin toss—often Mahomes-led squads—can end the game without the other team ever touching the ball, which Mayfield and others see as unfair.

This year, the NFL Competition Committee considered a change granting both teams a possession, acknowledging that the coin toss has determined nearly 75% of OT outcomes .

Mayfield’s Position—and Possible NFL Shift

Mayfield’s renewed criticism highlights a growing consensus: OT fairness needs fixing. His public stance—rooted in personal playoff frustrations—adds a high-profile voice urging change. With league discussions already underway, Mayfield’s comments may help push reforms forward.

NFL Wires’ Take

Mayfield’s frustrations underscore a valid point: a system that relies on a flipped coin to decide a game feels arbitrary—especially when playoff hopes are on the line. His shift from blaming play calls to questioning league structure signals a bigger issue: fairness. If influential alumni like Mayfield keep speaking out, the NFL may be compelled to schedule both teams a chance in OT—regardless of the toss.

Conclusion: The Overtime Debate Heats Up

Baker Mayfield’s perspective—shaped by on-field outcomes and playoff heartbreak—gives urgency to the overtime discussion. As NFL owners debate change at the annual meetings, Mayfield stands as a familiar voice echoing fans’ frustration. If his criticism gains momentum, 2025 could usher in a new OT era—one that ensures both teams have a shot at victory.

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