Have you ever watched a football game and wondered how long the NFL halftime is? You’re not alone. It is the mid-game break that allows players to rest, coaches to adjust strategies, and broadcasters to deliver analysis and commercials. While the length of halftime in the NFL is fixed, it can vary depending on many factors. So, how long is NFL halftime?
In this article, we will explain how long halftime is in the NFL. We will also look at the NFL halftime length change during the playoffs, what happens during the break, and much more.
Let’s get started!
How Long is NFL Halftime?
NFL halftime is 13 minutes long during regular and playoff games. The halftime length listed here is according to the NFL rulebook in Rule 4, Section 1, Article 3.
During this time, play is suspended, and players may leave the field. Once it ends, the teams are expected to return to the field on time. If there is a delay in the start of the second half because of a team, penalties can be enforced.
You should also note that the halftime for Thanksgiving games is longer than for other regular-season games. NCAA football halftime lasts seven minutes longer than the NFL (20 minutes).
How long is the NFL Halftime in the Playoffs?
NFL halftimes have the same length in playoffs as in regular-season games. However, there is an exception to this rule in the Super Bowl.
In the Super Bowl, the halftime show is about 12-15 minutes. But the time to set up the stage and dismantle it also counts in this. They do that without disturbing the playing surface. So, on average, the NFL halftime at the Super Bowl lasts for about 25-30 minutes.
NFL Football Halftime Length
How long is NFL halftime? This question often gets put up among fans. But the 13-minute time is shorter than many fans expect, especially when compared to college football. Let’s dive deep into this.
Why is the NFL Halftime 13 Minutes?
There are many reasons why the league keeps the halftime relatively short. They do that to maintain game flow, limit player cooldown time, keep broadcast schedules tight, and reduce the injury risk from long breaks. In the NFL, players are trained for quick recovery, and coaches are used to making rapid halftime adjustments.
What If Halftime Runs Long?
Besides “How long is an NFL halftime?”, you might also be wondering what if the NFL halftime show runs longer than expected. There are rules in place if that happens.
If the halftime exceeds the allotted time, officials notify both teams, teams can be penalized for delay, and broadcast coordination takes priority. Strict enforcement of the halftime rules keeps games on schedule.
Related Read: NFL Playoffs Begin to Take Shape as Season Nears End
What Happens During NFL Halftime?
How long are NFL halftimes? After knowing the answer to this question, you might also be wondering what happens during these breaks. Typically, fans see commercials and analysis during halftime, but a lot happens behind the scenes during this period.
Team Activities
During the 13-minute breaks in NFL halftime, players and coaches can return to the locker room, receive medical treatment, review the first half performance, make tactical adjustments, and change equipment. Because they have to do this in a limited time frame, everything is highly organized and fast-paced.
Broadcast and Fan Experience
Halftime is very different for viewers at the stadium or at home. Typically, it includes studio analysis, highlights from the first half, interviews, commentary, and commercial breaks. During this period, generally, there are no field performances.
NFL Halftime Show Explained
Now that you know “how long is halftime in NFL football?” let’s understand what goes on in the NFL halftime show.
Many people search online for the NFL halftime show, expecting live performances. However, live performances happen only in certain games.
In regular NFL Games, there are no live halftime performances. It only includes studio-based commentary with commercial-heavy breaks.
In special NFL games, minor entertainment elements are featured. These games can be on Thanksgiving Day or some international NFL games. One thing to keep in mind is that these games are still limited and do not extend halftime length.
How Long is Super Bowl Halftime?
How long is NFL halftime in Super Bowl games? The length of halftime in the NFL Super Bowl game varies from that of the regular games. It is the only NFL game with an extended halftime.
Super Bowl Halftime lasts for about 25-30 minutes.
It runs for more than double the regular-season NFL halftime. It is because the crew has to set up a massive stage and tear it down before the play resumes. There are also high-profile musical performances, sponsorships, and advertising events. A longer halftime is built into the event schedule because the Super Bowl is watched by millions worldwide.
Related Read: Popular NFL Matchups Closing Out the Year’s Schedule
Conclusion
The halftime lasts for 13 minutes. It gives players ample time for a break before the second half.
Only the Super Bowl is an exception to this, as halftime extends to around 25-30 minutes to accommodate the famous halftime show.
So, whether you are watching live or planning your schedule around a game, knowing the length of an NFL football halftime helps you understand it.
FAQs
1. How long is halftime in NFL football?
Ans: NFL halftime is 13 minutes long during the regular season and playoff games.
2. Is the NFL halftime longer than the college football halftime?
Ans: No. College football halftime is usually around 20 minutes, while NFL halftime is shorter.
3. How long is the Super Bowl halftime show?
Ans: Super Bowl halftime lasts about 25–30 minutes, depending on the performance.
Source:
- 2025 NFL Rulebook by NFL Football Operations
