Florida-Texas A&M game: Ex-Cowboys RB Emmitt Smith to serve as 'Mr. Two Bits'

Dallas Cowboys legend and Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith has always had a standing invitation to return to the University of Florida as the honorary "Mr. Two Bits."

This Saturday, Smith is finally accepting that invitation as the Texas A&M football team — and Emmitt's son, E.J. Smith — step into Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

Emmitt had a stellar three-year career at Florida, rushing for 3,928 yards and 36 touchdowns. He broke numerous rushing records with the Gators , and it all led to him being drafted by the Cowboys with the 17th overall pick in the 1990 NFL draft.

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The younger Smith is in his fifth year of school, transferring to A&M from Stanford. He played in the Aggies' loss to Notre Dame, running for 24 yards on 14 attempts.

The "Mr. Two Bits" tradition began with George E. Edmondson Jr. in 1949, when he introduced the traditional "Two-Bits' cheer." It became so popular that Edmonson was continuously invited back to midfield to lead the cheer. He led his last cheer in 2008 before backing away from the role citing health concerns.

Edmonson died in 2009, but his tradition lives on with other guests. Smith, the NFL's all-time leader in rushing, is excited to take his turn.

"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 said. "I can still hear George Edmondson hyping up the crowd back when I was a player. 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."

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This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Florida-Texas A&M game: Ex-Cowboys RB Emmitt Smith to serve as 'Mr. Two Bits'