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Emmitt Smith names the SEC team he would’ve played for if not Florida

Rolando Rosa

By Rolando Rosa

Published:

Emmitt Smith is a member of both the college and pro hall of fame after an illustrious career that includes his time as a Florida Gator.

However, the legendary running back was strongly considering joining a different SEC program had he not committed to Florida. During an appearance on SEC This Morning, the 54-year-old Smith revealed that Auburn would’ve been his other selection.

Smith was allured by Bo Jackson winning the Heisman Trophy in 1985 and the playing surface.

“It wouldn’t have been at Florida State. I can promise you that. It would’ve been at the University of Auburn probably. All because when I was coming out Bo Jackson had just won the Heisman a couple years before that,” Smith said.

Smith says that Auburn’s coach at the time, Pat Dye, had a pitch centered around him winning the Heisman Trophy.

“Pat Dye had committed to me, here’s the campaign. Here’s what we’re going to do to get you the Heisman because we want you to get the Heisman. Auburn took pride in running the football. They were on grass, so that was 1 motivating factor for me as well.”

Things still turned out pretty great for Smith at Florida, where he’s a member of the program’s Ring of Honor. Smith then went on to become the NFL’s all-time leader in rushing yards (18,355) and rushing touchdowns (164) and captured 3 Super Bowl titles with the Dallas Cowboys.

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