There wasn’t enough time left for mistakes. A field goal wouldn’t help. We needed a touchdown, and we needed it before the clock reached zero.

The final drive began deep in our own territory.

The first pass gained just eight retro bowl yards. It wasn’t much, but it stopped the panic from setting in. The next completion moved the chains, followed by another quick throw that brought us close to midfield.

The defense started playing softer coverage, trying to prevent a big play while allowing short completions underneath. Instead of forcing risky passes downfield, I accepted every easy gain they offered.

With 30 seconds remaining, we crossed into opponent territory.

Now every snap mattered.

A completion over the middle kept the drive alive but forced precious seconds off the clock. Another quick pass reached the sideline, allowing the offense to regroup with only 16 seconds remaining.

Everyone knew a deep shot was coming.

The defense backed away from the line, protecting the end zone and daring me to throw underneath.

I ignored the obvious option.