Survivor Pools 101
Everything You Need to Know to Get Started
Learn the Rules, Formats, and Beginner Strategies for NFL Survivor Pools
New to NFL survivor pools? You've come to the right place. These increasingly popular contests offer a simple premise—pick one NFL team to win each week, but never use the same team twice—yet they're filled with strategy, suspense, and the chance to win big with minimal effort. Unlike fantasy football, which requires weekly lineup management, survivor pools let you make just one decision per week (unless you're eliminated, of course).
This basics section walks you through everything you need to know to join your first survivor pool with confidence. We cover the fundamental rules, different pool variations you might encounter, and beginner-friendly strategies that will help you avoid early elimination. Whether you're joining an office pool, an online contest, or organizing your own competition among friends, these guides will ensure you start with a solid foundation.
You can also start with our Survivor Pool FAQ to get oriented.
What Is an NFL Survivor Pool? A Beginner's Guide
NFL survivor pools (also called elimination or knockout pools) are simple yet exciting contests where you pick one winning team each week, but can never use the same team twice. Learn how these popular office pools work, why they're taking the NFL world by storm, and how even beginners can compete with confidence.
NFL Survivor Pool Rules Explained Simply
Understanding survivor pool rules is the first step to success. This guide breaks down the essential rules—pick one team to win each week, never use the same team twice, and survive while others are eliminated. Learn about common variations like strike weeks, multiple picks, and pool-specific tiebreakers that could affect your strategy.
How NFL Survivor Pools Work (And Why They're So Fun)
Discover why survivor pools have become one of the most popular NFL betting formats. With minimal time commitment, season-long excitement, and the potential for big payouts, these pools offer the perfect balance of strategy and entertainment. Learn how the elimination format creates weekly drama and why even casual fans can compete with football experts.