The NFL playoff format has evolved over the years, with changes designed to enhance competition, increase viewer excitement, and allow more teams a chance at postseason glory. The latest update to the NFL playoff bracket format came in 2020, marking a significant shift from the previous structure. This new format, still in place for the 2024 season, expanded the playoff field and altered the way teams advance to the Super Bowl. Here’s a breakdown of how the current NFL playoff bracket format works.
Key Changes in the New NFL Playoff Format
1. Expanded Number of Teams:
One of the most notable changes in the new playoff format is the expansion from 12 to 14 teams. Previously, six teams from each conference (the AFC and NFC) made the playoffs: four division winners and two wild-card teams. Under the new format, seven teams from each conference now qualify for the playoffs. This includes the four division champions and three wild-card teams, meaning more teams have an opportunity to compete for the Lombardi Trophy.
2. Only One First-Round Bye Per Conference:
In the previous format, the top two seeds from each conference were awarded first-round byes, allowing them to skip the Wild Card round and automatically advance to the Divisional round. However, under the new system, only the No. 1 seed in each conference gets a first-round bye. This change increases the stakes for securing the top seed, as teams that finish second in their conference now have to play in the Wild Card round.
3. Wild Card Weekend Expansion:
The expansion to seven teams per conference means that there are now six games on Wild Card Weekend (three in the AFC and three in the NFC), up from four games under the old system. The No. 2 seed faces the No. 7 seed, the No. 3 seed plays the No. 6 seed, and the No. 4 seed takes on the No. 5 seed. This change has made Wild Card Weekend even more action-packed, with more matchups and higher stakes for lower-seeded teams.
The Path to the Super Bowl
After Wild Card Weekend, the winners advance to the Divisional Round, where the No. 1 seed in each conference plays the lowest remaining seed. The other two advancing teams from the Wild Card round face off based on their seeding.
The winners of the Divisional Round move on to the Conference Championships, where the AFC and NFC champions are crowned. These two teams then meet in the Super Bowl to determine the league champion.
Impact of the New Format
The new playoff format has been well-received, as it creates more excitement and competition. More teams means a greater chance for upsets, and the expanded Wild Card round gives additional fanbases something to root for late in the season. With more meaningful games on Wild Card Weekend and greater importance placed on earning the No. 1 seed, the new format has injected fresh energy into the postseason.
The current NFL playoff bracket format, featuring 14 teams and only one first-round bye per conference, has made the postseason more competitive and unpredictable. It ensures that more teams are in contention and delivers more action for fans. As the NFL continues to evolve, this format provides a thrilling road to the Super Bowl each season.