It could be argued

Nick Eddy's kickoff return against Purdue in '66, after Leroy Keyes had returned a fumble, established the winning spirit for the team. Had Nick not made the play and Purdue built on their lead the psychology would have been entirely different, not only for that season but perhaps for our perception of Ara.

Of course ND had the dominant team, and the entire special teams unit was responsible for the play. I've never seen a more wide open sideline to run down. I was sitting just above the tunnel and clearly saw the play develop.

So, it is all speculation; as the question invites.