Florida football and NFL legend Emmitt Smith will serve as the honorary Mr. Two Bits for this Saturday’s SEC opener in the Swamp against the Texas A&M Aggies.
Amazingly, this will be the first time that Smith has ever donned the yellow shirt, tie and slacks immortalized by the late George E. Edmondson Jr. Despite a standing open invitation dating back to the beginning of the tradition’s new era in 2013, the all-time great running back will finally have his day inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
“It’s always a great time being back at the Swamp and this time is extra special watching my son take on my alma mater. It’s truly a full circle moment and I’m blessed to witness it,” Smith offered.
“I can still hear George Edmondson hyping up the crowd back when I was a player,” he continued. “You better believe I’m going to give it my all now that it’s my turn to give it a go. I’m ready to have a blast while keeping this tradition alive. ”
Smith spent three seasons (1987-89) in Gainesville, with 700 rushing attempts for 3,928 yards and 36 touchdowns — numbers that remain second all-time in Florida history. He was selected 17th overall in the 1990 NFL draft by the Dallas Cowboys and over the next 15 seasons rushed 4,409 times for 18,345 yards and 164 touchdowns, all of which remain NFL records.
In popular culture, Smith and his partner Cheryl Burke won the third season of Dancing With the Stars in 2006 — just two years after retiring from the NFL.
The legend from Milton, Florida, is now a thriving businessman in Texas at the age of 55, keeping himself busy with various ventures and charitable organizations.
Next up for the Gators
Florida will host Texas A&M inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Saturday, Sept. 14. Kickoff is slated for 3:30 p.m. ET and the game will be broadcast on ABC.
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