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Illinois receiver’s catch is straight out of the X-Games

If this whole football thing doesn't work out for Naperville (Ill.) Neuqua Valley High receiver Mike Dudek, he might want to consider action sports. His ability to fearlessly go parallel to the ground would make him a natural fit for sports like Big Air.

As brought to Prep Rally's attention by USA Today, Dudek, a senior 3-star Rivals.com prospect who has committed to Illinois, refused to miss out on a big grab during a game against crosstown rival Naperville (Ill.) Central High. The ball to the wide out was under thrown, but rather than simply trying to break up an interception he decided to go up and over his defender to get to the ball.

Even then, Dudek could only get a single paw on the football. It's a good thing that he has particularly long arms for a 5-foot-11 receiver, because his fully extended arm and hand eventually pulled in the pass while Dudek was forced completely parallel to the turf.

Somehow he held on for one of the most spectacular grabs of the season, then nonchalantly tossed the ball to a nearby official as he trotted off the field. Clearly, he's a pro.

Unfortunately for Dudek and his teammates, Naperville Central got the best of the grudge match with a 58-35 victory. At least the senior and his cohorts will have something memorable to reflect on thanks to that ridiculous catch.

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