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What is Hail Mary in American Football?

A desperation heave into the end zone on the final play, with receivers massed for a jump ball. Low-percentage but responsible for some of the sport's most famous finishes.

Example: The Hail Mary was tipped — and caught — as time expired.

Related terms

TouchdownField goalExtra pointTwo-point conversionSafetyDownFirst downLine of scrimmage
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