The film was about wide receiver and special teamer Vince Papale, portrayed by Mark Wahlberg, who was signed after receiving an invite to training camp after his success with the fledgling World Football League (WFL) team, the Philadelphia Bell.
The film also feature the hiring of Dick Vermeil, portrayed by Greg Kinnear, and his first training camp with the team.
In 1976, the gung-ho new coach of football's hapless Philadelphia Eagles, Dick Vermeil, held open tryouts.
Papale's fumble recovery for a touchdown against the Giants did actually happen, however, it was called back due to a penalty.
Rookies in italics A game against the St. Louis Cardinals on October 10 was originally scheduled to be played at Veterans Stadium, but was relocated to St. Louis due to a Philadelphia Phillies game for the MLB National League Championship that ended up being played at Veterans Stadium on the same day.