Not at all a rip off, though influenced for sure. Sword of Shanarah was great, and was released in 1977.

Interviewing Duce was more of a nod of respect to him than anything else. He's a beloved figure in Philly sports, and they wanted to show him their appreciation. He's a RB coach, he still has to make the leap to coordinator, and be successful there, before he can realistically have a shot at a head coach position.