The famous “helmet catch” happened in Super Bowl XLII (42) , played on February 3, 2008, between the New York Giants and the New England Patriots.

Quick Scoop

  • The play is officially known as the Helmet Catch , made by Giants wide receiver David Tyree on a pass from quarterback Eli Manning.
  • It took place late in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLII , with the Giants trailing and facing a crucial third down.
  • The Giants went on to win the game 17–14 , ruining the Patriots’ bid for a perfect season.

Tiny Story Angle

In a desperate late-game drive, Eli Manning slipped out of what looked like a sure sack and heaved the ball downfield. David Tyree, tightly covered, pinned the ball against his helmet as he fell, somehow hanging on and turning a near sack into one of the most iconic plays in Super Bowl history.

TL;DR: The helmet catch happened in Super Bowl XLII (42) , Giants vs. Patriots, on February 3, 2008.