A Must Watch: The U (ESPN’s “30 for 30″ series)
December 13th, 2009 by nwsportsguyI just watched ESPN’s “30 for 30″ documentary on the University of Miami Football teams from 1983-1991. The film was directed by Billy Corben, creator of the “Cocaine Cowboys” documentary about the city of Miami’s drug problems during the same era.
It was quite simply fantastic, detailing the program’s rise to prominence through three very successful coaches – Howard Schnellenberger, Jimmy Johnson and Dennis Erickson.
Through targeted recruiting, they tapped into the limitless talent of South Florida, which lead them to their eventual success.
The most entertaining aspect of the film was The U’s brazen swagger – they crushed everyone in their path and were encouraged (particularly by Jimmy Johnson) to rub it right in their faces. Along the way they won four national championships and got cheated out of another.
The U was in so big in Miami that the players would get into the best local clubs (free of charge), while millionaire Dolphin pros were waiting in line outside. In fact, 2 Live Crew’s Uncle Luke was a huge fan and put bounties on the opposing team’s heads. For example the individual who the biggest hit on the other team received a cool $1000 from the U fan.
Its something that will probably never happen again in the NCAA. Note that the documentary ends with the “Whammy in Miami” – when the Huskies ended their 58 game winning streak. Go out and watch it.
Tags: 30 for 30, ESPN, Huskies Football
An insider's take on Seattle sports and other miscellaneous happenings, written by Northwest sports fan Chadrick Ashby.
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
Recent Comments