Originally Posted by
olster
Correct. The rudder hardover theory was a low speed event.
Yes, but the 737 also had at least one high-speed rudder hard-over event in the cruise.
Due to their speed this crew were able to recover, but it was a major event that nearly turned them upside-down. But if the crew were less able, or disorientated due IMC, or if there was an airframe failure due to these stresses, then a high-speed rudder hard-over could result in a plunge into the ocean.