“Shocking Loss: Notre Dame Football Icon Passes Away, Leaving Fans in Mourning”

Ever wondered how a single play can etch a name into the fabric of a storied athletic institution? Well, let’s dive into a story that’s not about the latest love interest of Notre Dame’s QB Riley Leonard, but rather one of the most significant figures in Notre Dame football history. This past weekend, the Notre Dame community was shaken by the news of the passing of a true Irish legend, a man whose impact seems an anomaly in today’s turnover-heavy college football roster… Which leads me into thinking: do we pay enough homage to these football giants?

This weekend the university announced the sad passing of Eric Penick, a former running back whose highlight moment came during the 1973 season, in which he catapulted Notre Dame 20-7 over perennial rivals USC in a manner so legendary, that he’s likely the stuff of bedtime stories for many a Notre Dame supporter. His 85-yard gallop through the twilight against USC (now, that is what we in the SEO world call ‘timeless content’ worth checking out) will be revered for many generations.

You see, in a field where everything shifts with algorithmic-like precision nostalgia plays a surprising role, even for SEO gurus like myself. When I think of Penick, I remember not just the highlight reels but, the quiet comment he made just a couple years ago at the 50th anniversary reunion of that National Championship team:
“All of us were 18 at one time, but now we are all in our seventies. And we may not come together again, so I wanted to be here for that. It is special.”

Indeed, Eric, it certainly was. His 85-yard run serves as a reminder that some content—whether web page, memory, or touchdown run—stands the test of time. In the spirit of sending our heartfelt farewells, we reflect upon the legacy he left behind, that unlike ephemeral content, has indelible, evergreen quality. Here’s to you, Eric Penick, may your memory and that epic run live on forever.

Godspeed and rest in peace, #44.

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The Notre Dame Fighting Irish were forced to say goodbye to one of their beloved alumni this weekend.

On Saturday, the school announced the passing of former running back Eric Penick who rushed for 1,327 yards and 12 touchdowns in his career — winning a national championship with the Irish in the 1973 Sugar Bowl.

The most iconic moment of Penick’s career came that season when he took an 85-yard run to the house to give Notre Dame a 20-7 lead over USC.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Eric Penick. We send our condolences to his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/siIqfE7kTT

— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) April 19, 2025

Fans reacted to his death across social media.

“Had one of the most memorable touchdowns for Notre Dame of the last 60 years…. his 85-yard romp through the gloaming vs. SC in ’73,” a user pointed out.

“‘The Fastest Man on the Field!’ … Godspeed and RIP ☘️ to a true Notre Dame Man,” another replied.

“The 85 yard gallop in ’73 was one of my early memories of Irish FB,” a fan recalled. “RIP.”

“1st recollection of ND football was Penick along with Clements & Bullock. Reason I became a lifelong fan,” another person posted. “God Bless 44!”

“Godspeed to Eric Penick!” another user exclaimed.

“Memory of him will live forever!” another fan commented.

Penick was a five-time state champion sprinter and All-American running back at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, OH before arriving to South Bend as one of the most heralded recruits in the university’s history.

Two years ago, members of the ’73 team got together to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their national title win over Alabama where Penick said: “All of us were 18 at one time, but now we are all in our seventies. And we may not come together again, so I wanted to be here for that. It is special.”

It certainly is and was. May he rest in peace.

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