Football Movie You Probably Missed, Part I

December 12, 2009. A few days before my birthday and I was about to receive an early birthday present: Road Trip back to what I would consider the antithesis of Halcyon Years of NCAA football. The U was coming on television that night.

While it detailed a buildup of the football program at Miami University (even talking about the logo), the heavier emphasis was the recruitment methods and the encouragement of showboating (Pay for Play and Luther Campbell are mentioned). As an adult, I really can't say that I'd condone that kind of play now, but back then, it was truly electric. Those boys could play...period. What truly adds to this documentary is that all the interviews are with former UM coaches and players, including Howard Schnellenberger, Jimmie Johnson, Santana Moss, Michael Irvin, Jeremy Shockey, and many more. These were the warriors that talked the talked and backed it up. I came into the game late but was still regaled with the stories of the swagger that players from "The U" had and that was that.

Obviously, if you were not a fan of the team then, something will be lost in the translation here. This movie was done by Billy Corben, of Cocaine Cowboys series fame (another really good documentary as well). He's a fan of the teams from late 1970's through the 1990's isn't ashamed to let this come through in the presentation. And of course, there is some detailing of a few of the crimes that the players were "accused" of, but this isn't harped upon.

Sadly, if you missed it, you are out of luck for a bit. The DVD is scheduled to come out sometime this year. Sure, you can bit it together on youTube, but that just ain't the same. There is a nice short interview with Corben here, that's about it for now. In any case, for those of you that are about my age and enjoyed the show that those boys in green put on, check it out.

Shazam!

Next time: NFL Player's Association