Idiom: “To throw a Hail Mary”

Here’s one of those phrases for you. Used not only in its original field. 😉

A Hail Mary pass or Hail Mary route in American football refers to any very long forward pass made in desperation with only a small chance of success, especially at or near the end of a half.

What Oxford doctionary has to say about it?

Hail Mary:

1a prayer to the Virgin Mary used chiefly by Roman Catholics, beginning with part of Luke 1:28. Also called Ave Maria.

2 [usually as modifier]US (in American football) a long, typically unsuccessful pass made in an attempt to score late in the game.

a plan or project with little chance of success.

There is no play riskier in football than making a last second, desperation pass play to the end zone.  The game clock is running out, the opposing team’s defensive coordinator knows the play is coming, and the defense is set up and ready to foil the attempt. Hail Mary passes stimulate the minds and hearts of spectators, sports announcers and teammates.  After all, that last second chance to claim success offers something needed in a time of helplessness — hope.

Now I’ll use the Show, don’t tell principle: