Ep 2. Emmitt Smith

Emmitt Smith is one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, and this episode of A Football Life explores his remarkable career from the perspective of his teammates, coaches, and family members. From his early years in Pensacola, Florida to his collegiate success at the University of Florida, viewers get a sense of how Smith's incredible talent and work ethic shaped his path to becoming a three-time Super Bowl champion and the NFL's all-time leading rusher.

The episode opens with Smith reflecting on his upbringing and the lessons he learned from his mother, Mary, who raised him and his four siblings on her own. As a young boy, Smith had a passion for football and idolized players like Jim Brown and Walter Payton, who inspired him to work hard and pursue his dreams. He played youth football in Pensacola and quickly became a standout player, earning a scholarship to play at the University of Florida.

With the Gators, Smith had a stellar career, setting numerous records and establishing himself as one of the best running backs in the country. He was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 1990 and quickly emerged as a star on a team loaded with talent, including Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman and wide receiver Michael Irvin. Together, they formed one of the most dominant offenses in NFL history, winning three Super Bowls in four years in the early 1990s.

Throughout the episode, we hear from many of Smith's former teammates, who speak to his leadership, work ethic, and unselfishness on and off the field. They discuss his incredible durability, as Smith rarely missed a game despite taking a pounding as the team's primary ball-carrier. They also talk about his ability to make big plays in important moments, including his legendary performance in the final game of the 1993 season, when he rushed for a career-high 168 yards and two touchdowns to clinch the Cowboys' second consecutive Super Bowl title.

In addition to his success on the field, Smith was known for his philanthropic work and his dedication to his family. His wife, Pat, and son, Emmitt Jr., are interviewed in the episode and share their perspectives on what it was like to be part of a football dynasty and the sacrifices that were necessary to achieve such greatness. Smith's mother also makes an appearance, and it is clear that her influence and support were crucial to his success.

Overall, A Football Life: Emmitt Smith is a fascinating look at one of the NFL's greatest players and the legacy he has left behind. While Smith's career has been over for nearly two decades, his impact on the game is still felt today, and this episode serves as a fitting tribute to his incredible talent and dedication. Whether you're a longtime Cowboys fan or simply a lover of football history, this is a must-watch episode that will leave you feeling inspired and grateful for the incredible athletes who have graced the gridiron over the years.