Help & Support
Game Types Explained
Choose the perfect NFL prediction game for your group. Each game type offers a unique experience and strategy.
Pick'em
Classic Prediction Game
How It Works
- Pick the winner of every NFL game each week
- Answer tiebreaker questions for designated games
- Earn 1 point for each correct pick
- Tiebreakers determine winners when scores are tied
Strategy Tips
- • Research team matchups and injury reports
- • Consider home field advantage
- • Don't overthink obvious favorites
- • Pay attention to weather conditions
Best For
Beginners, casual players, large groups, and season-long competition
Survivor Pool
High-Stakes Elimination
How It Works
- Pick one team each week to win their game
- Cannot pick the same team twice all season
- Get a strike if your team loses or ties
- Three strikes and you're eliminated
Strategy Tips
- • Save strong teams for later in the season
- • Consider strength of schedule
- • Don't use elite teams too early
- • Plan several weeks ahead
Best For
Experienced players, strategic thinkers, smaller groups, and high-stakes competition
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pick'em | Survivor Pool |
|---|---|---|
| Picks per week | All games (~16) | One team |
| Team restrictions | None | No repeats |
| Elimination | No elimination | 3 strikes |
| Season length | Full season | Until eliminated |
| Difficulty | Beginner friendly | Advanced strategy |
| Time commitment | Moderate | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I participate in both game types?
Yes! You can join multiple groups with different game types. Each group operates independently.
What happens if I miss a week?
In Pick'em, you'll receive 0 points for that week. In Survivor pools, missing a week typically results in elimination, depending on group rules.
How are tiebreakers handled?
Pick'em groups use tiebreaker questions (usually total points in a game). The person closest to the actual total wins ties.
When do picks lock?
Picks lock 15 minutes before each game starts. You can still make picks for games that haven't started yet.
Getting Started
For New Users
- 1 Create an account with your email and username
- 2 Choose between Pick'em or Survivor Pool game types
- 3 Create a new group or join an existing one with a group code
- 4 Make your first picks before the games start
Making Picks
- Navigate to the Picks page from the main menu
- Select your game type (Pick'em or Survivor)
- Make your selections before games lock
- Submit your picks to make them official
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the deadline for picks?
Picks lock 15 minutes before each game starts. You can still make picks for games that haven't started yet, but once a game locks, you can't change that pick.
How is Pick'em scoring calculated?
You get 1 point for each correct pick. Tiebreaker questions are used to break ties when multiple people have the same number of correct picks.
What happens if I miss a week?
In Pick'em, you'll receive 0 points for that week. In Survivor pools, missing a week typically results in elimination, depending on your group's rules.
How do Survivor Pool strikes work?
You get a strike when your selected team loses or ties. Most pools allow 3 strikes before elimination, but this can vary by group settings.
Can I change my picks after submitting?
You can modify your picks until the game locks (15 minutes before kickoff). After that, picks are final for that game.
Can I join multiple groups?
Yes! You can participate in multiple groups with different game types. Each group operates independently with its own standings.
Tips & Strategies
Pick'em Strategy
- • Research team matchups and recent performance
- • Consider home field advantage (worth ~3 points)
- • Check injury reports for key players
- • Don't overthink obvious favorites
- • Weather can impact outdoor games significantly
- • Divisional games are often closer than expected
Survivor Strategy
- • Save elite teams (Chiefs, Bills) for later weeks
- • Plan 3-4 weeks ahead when possible
- • Consider strength of schedule for remaining games
- • Avoid teams on short rest (Thursday games)
- • Road favorites can be risky picks
- • Keep track of which teams others have used
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Can't submit picks
Make sure all required picks are made and no games have locked yet.
Group code not working
Double-check the code with your group admin. Codes are case-sensitive.
Picks not saving
Check your internet connection and try refreshing the page.
Need More Help?
If you're still having issues, try these steps:
- • Clear your browser cache and cookies
- • Try using a different browser
- • Check if JavaScript is enabled
- • Disable browser extensions temporarily
Still Need Help?
Our support team is here to help you get the most out of Pigskin Pick'em.