As a die hard Steeler fan, I hated the Cowboys growing up. But I always respected Emmitt Smith. In high school (mid 90's), I was a tailback. And I chose to be number 22 due to Emmitt. Mostly it was due to his running style and his size (similar to mine), but also it was due to his heart and determination. His speech tonight at the hall of fame really made me appreciate the fact that I idolized him. For those that didn't see it, and for those that think all NFL players are Ocho Cinco esque, check it out. Completely genuine, heartfelt, and moving. What really got me was when he tearfully and genuinely thanked his teammates, but especially the way he thanked Moose Johnston. The NFL could definitely use more men like Emmitt Smith
A matter of opinion and everyone is going to defend their own era.
It's understandable, just as 20 years from now I'll be arguing with some younger kid that Michael Jordan was the best ever when there's a guy who's probably better than Jordan by that time.
As for Emmitt Smith, most people don't know, realize, or forget how good he was in high schoool or college as well. And I just about guarantee most don't know the following:
Almost 9,000 Rushing Yards in High school with over 100 TD's.
He would also hold the Hershel Walker's all-time SEC college rushing record but Emmitt only played 3 years.
And well of course, those that don't know the 2 stats above & the rest of us know him as the NFL's all-time rushing & TD leader.
I guess he followed that same offensive line his whole life & coincidence he was the most dominant ever combined on all 3 Levels.........
Ditto, die hard Giant fan, hated the Cowboys more than any team in pro sports, hated Emmitt for all the right reasons.
Every time he touched the ball, he scared me shitless.
Congrats for being a class act all those years, for playing the game right, for giving me a reason to look foward to Sunday afternoons, so I can root against you, for, like I said, all the right reasons.
Tip of my Giant cap your way Mr. Smith, job well done.
