<P> When the clock is running low, it is not uncommon for a quarterback to spike the ball to stop the clock, either to set up for the next play or bring on the special teams . Here too, the objective is to trick the defense into believing that no downfield play will be run . </P> <P> A famous example occurred in 1994 with the Clock Play, when Dan Marino's Dolphins were playing the Jets . From the account of Pat Kirwan, former Jets defensive coach and executive, </P> <Table> <Tr> <Td> "</Td> <Td> With little time left, Marino had driven the Dolphins near our goal line and lined up as if he were going to spike the ball to stop the clock . But instead, he faked the spike, and as our defense let up for a split second, Marino threw the winning touchdown . </Td> <Td>" </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> "</Td> <Td> With little time left, Marino had driven the Dolphins near our goal line and lined up as if he were going to spike the ball to stop the clock . But instead, he faked the spike, and as our defense let up for a split second, Marino threw the winning touchdown . </Td> <Td>" </Td> </Tr>

Quarterback fakes a pass and keeps the ball