Ep 11. Troy Aikman

Troy Aikman is the focus of the seventh season, eleventh episode of A Football Life. This docuseries has taken football fans on a journey through the lives of some of the most memorable football players in history, and Troy Aikman is no exception.

Aikman was selected by the Dallas Cowboys as the first overall pick in the 1989 NFL Draft and quickly established himself as one of the game's best quarterbacks. In his 12 year career, Aikman was a six-time Pro Bowler, a three-time Super Bowl champion, and MVP of Super Bowl XXVII.

The episode explores Aikman's journey from his early days growing up in Oklahoma, where he was a star high school quarterback, to his college career at UCLA, where he was a two-time All-American. Aikman's journey to the top of the NFL was not without its setbacks, however.

In his first year with the Cowboys, Aikman struggled mightily. The team finished 1-15, and Aikman threw twice as many interceptions as touchdowns. The intense pressure of being the first overall pick, combined with a lack of confidence, took its toll on the young quarterback.

But Aikman refused to give up. He worked tirelessly during the offseason, and his hard work paid off in his second year when the Cowboys made it to the playoffs. That was just the beginning of Aikman's success.

The episode delves into Aikman's work ethic and intense preparation. Aikman was known for his meticulous study of his opponents and his ability to read a defense. He was also a leader on and off the field, pushing his teammates to be their best.

But Aikman's career was not without its share of adversity. Throughout his career, he battled injuries, including a back injury that forced him to retire at the age of 34. Aikman wistfully reflects on the toll injuries took on his body and how it affected his decision to retire.

The episode includes interviews with Aikman's former teammates and coaches as well as some of the opponents he faced on the field. They all speak to Aikman's fierce competitiveness, his unwavering focus, and his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. The episode also features interviews with Aikman's family and friends, who provide insights into the person behind the athlete.

A Football Life: Troy Aikman is a celebration of one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. Through interviews and archival footage, fans learn more about Aikman's journey to greatness and how he left his mark on the game of football. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves football and wants to learn more about one of the game's true legends.