Friday, September 13, 1996
Kevin Smith's Return Lifts Cowboys
By DENNE H. FREEMAN
AP Sports Writer
(Sept. 13, 1996)
IRVING, Texas (AP) - Cornerback Kevin Smith is no longer one
of the big question marks in the Dallas Cowboys defense.
A torn right Achilles tendon suffered in the 1995 season opener
ended his year. Some predicted it would end his career because
of the severe stress backpedaling places on every tendon in a
defensive back's foot.
But so far this season Smith, a former No. 1 draft pick out in
1992 of Texas A&M, has shown that he's back and at least
as good as he was two years ago. In two games, he already has
two interceptions.
"I think I may even be playing more aggressive than I have
in the past," Smith said. "Some of our new schemes
are allowing me to be more aggressive. And why not? I have nothing
else to lose. What can happen that was any tougher than what
I've been through?"
Smith had received a longterm $18 million contract the day before
being injured. It was thought that owner Jerry Jones might have
blown some of his money.
But that was a miscalculation of Smith's resolve.
"He's a hard worker," said Dallas coach Barry Switzer.
"He was committed to coming back and playing like he used
to. 'Pup' is almost back to where he was."
"Pup" is Smith's nickname on the team because he shadows
receivers like a dog following a mailman. In 1993 and 1994, Smith
led the team in passes defensed.
However, until the last two games against the Chicago Bears and
the Giants, "PUP" could have stood for Physically Unable
to Perform.
"It was a lot of sweat," Smith said. "It was a
lot of hard work. But down deep I knew I could do it. Now my
mindset is like I have to make up for a whole season."
Smith and Deion Sanders give the Cowboys two of the most active
cover corners in the league.
"When you play with somebody like Deion on the field you
have to play a little more aggressive," Smith said. "You
have to play to his level."
Smith said the current Cowboys' defense could be one the best.
"We feel this is a year when we can get out there and set
the tone for the game and make some big plays to help our offense,"
Smith said. "When we get big plays early it really helps
the offense and this year we need to do things to make it easier
on them."
All content copyright 1996, AP, The Abilene
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