July 27th, 1998. I remember it well, sitting in my computer class in elementary school "researching" things. The internet allowed me to hear the news that Barry Sanders had retired from the NFL after ten years and in striking distance of an easily-attainable all-time rushing record. "The Day the Lions Died" is what I think of it as.
And we Lions fans needed the replacement. We all thought James Stewart admirably filled in and gave us some cheers. Kevin Jones made a Pro Bowl. But, it wasn't the same. We needed the reincarnation, and someone to look forward to watching.
And thanks to pick 64, Kevin Smith was drafted to the Lions.
It's not everyday when a player you root for in college football and go see in person numerous times gets drafted by your team in the National Football League. Kevin Smith is giving me the rare opportunity. He fell 81 yards shy of Mr. Lion's single season collegiate record of 2,629 rushing yards.
Now, I realize Central Florida isn't USC, but I also realize that against ranked NC State in the first game of the season he rushed for over 200 yards and his first play from scrimmage was an 87 yard touchdown run. Not good enough? University of Texas, 149 yards, 2 touchdowns. Kevin Smith is what us Lions fans have been waiting for.
Season line: 450 carries, 2,567 yards, 29 touchdowns.
Durability is something Lions fans need from a running back. Kevin Jones' entourage should've included a personal trainer, ambulance and crutches. Sure, he was great when healthy, but the key word was "when." Now, the Lions draft a back that carried the ball 30 times in five games, 40 times in 3 games, and only had less than 20 carries once last season.
Jones was often hampered by injuries even though, when healthy, he was a top-10 NFL back. Smith provides durability to the running back position and a chance to start over Tatum Bell. New Offensive Coordinator Jim Colletto brings a solid reputation as a "running guy," as he was the coordinator in Baltimore when Jamal Lewis ran for over 2,000 yards.
With the Lions now focused as much on running as passing, the future is bright in the continued effort to bring alive the magic Barry brought. There will never be another Barry Sanders. Hopefully, in 20 years, the same will be said about Kevin Smith.
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