something else happens and the panic starts, another rumor comes out and strengthens the first rumor, some “insiders” confirm the rumor/fact and it becomes the truth.

Then, when it doesn’t play out somebody posts that they are not renewing their family tickets that they have had for 90 years, somebody else posts that they may as well start rooting for Utah because at least they actually care about winning, and multiple people want the coaches head on a platter.