Rudy Ruettiger's Notre Dame helmet and jersey to auction

The Notre Dame helmet and jersey Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger wore in his famous sole appearance is coming to auction.

Ruettiger's story is college football folklore.

Number 45 awaits his chance

Number 45 awaits his chance

Undersized at 5'6" and 165 pounds, he harboured a desire to play for the famous Fighting Irish but few gave him a chance.

In his junior year, he managed to "walk on" to the team's practice squad. The following season, he was an unused player on the sidelines until the final game.

Towards the end of the game against Georgia Tech, sentimental coach Dan Devine put him in for three plays. On the third of those Ruettiger sacked the Georgia Tech quarterback. Ruettiger was carried off the field on his teammates' shoulders.

The helmet and jersey are expected to make at least $100,000. They will be among the stars of Hunt Auctions' Super Bowl Live Auction on February 4.

"There are certain moments that are truly larger than the sport they represent and the story of Rudy Ruettiger is without question among the most iconic," comments David Hunt of Hunt Auctions.

Ruettiger adds: "Over 40 years ago, in 1975, I could never have imagined what that moment on that field in South Bend would mean to my life nor the lives of so many that I have been so fortunate to meet.

"The feeling I had that day on the field as well as the experiences and blessings it has brought to me and my family simply cannot be qualified."

Also up for grabs are several pieces consigned for charity by Brett Favre. The Green Bay QB's 1996 most valuable player award has a $200,000 estimate.

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