College football fans noticed a “creepy” coincidence in the movie Rudy on Thursday after Notre Dame’s 27-24 victory over Penn State in the Orange Bowl.
The 1993 biographical sports film was an account of the life of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, who overcame many adversities to realize his dream of playing football at Notre Dame.
After Thursday’s game, a fan posted a frame from the film with the names Riley, Jeter and Mitch written on the board.
Fans immediately associated the list with Mitch Jeter, who won the game for the Fighting Irish with a 41-yard field goal, and quarterback Riley Leonard.
“There’s no way this is real,” one fan insisted.
“Don’t make me look at it to confirm it,” another added.
A Notre Dame fan shared a grab from the 1993 film on social media, leaving others stunned
Notre Dame kicker Mitch Jeter is lifted by teammate Pat Coogan after the game-winning field goal
Notre Dame quarterback Riley Leonard returned from a possible concussion for the win
Many commenters were baffled, with one Colts fan describing the connection as ‘creepy’
“If I watch the movie again and this isn’t real, I’ll end up hating the movie,” said a third.
A fourth fan pointed out ‘a few things here that are crazy. Riley, Jeter and ND defeated USC on November 30 to enter the playoffs. exactly 50 years after this date. Wow.’
Meanwhile, a fifth highlighted how the bigger picture shows the names listed among USC’s defense in a scouting report.
“These were real players on the 1974 USC Trojans Defense. Art Riley Gary Jeter Dale Mitchell,” the user wrote.
Aside from the uncanny connection, Notre Dame and its fans have plenty to celebrate. They are one win away from their first league title since 1988.
Leonard finished with 223 yards passing, including a key 10-yard dart to Jaden Greathouse to convert third-and-3 on the final drive. Leonard also had 35 yards rushing and passing and running each for a score.
His impressive finish came after he shook off a hit late in the second quarter, sending him to the medical tent to be checked for a concussion. He came back to lead the Irish on four scoring drives in the second half, including the final one.
Notre Dame will face Ohio State in the CFP national championship game on Jan. 20.