What is a football playoff pigtail game?

A football playoff pigtail game is a preliminary matchup used in certain playoff formats to determine which teams advance to the main tournament bracket. Typically, it involves teams that are evenly matched or have similar records, allowing them to compete for a spot in the playoffs. The term "pigtail" derives from the idea of a "pigtail" being an extra or preliminary round before the main event. These games are often used to ensure that all deserving teams have a chance to compete in the postseason.