The Express 2008

Based on a remarkable true story, The Express chronicles the uplifting journey of college football superstar Ernie Davis (Rob Brown), who made history as the first African-American to be awarded the prestigious Heisman Trophy. After being drafted into the NFL, tragedy struck the promising athlete, preventing him from stepping onto the professional field. However, his story would leave an indelible mark on the world of professional sports.

Born into poverty in the Southern Tier of New York State, Davis faced daunting challenges but ultimately emerged as an unstoppable running back for the Syracuse Orangemen. Guided by his hard-nosed coach, Ben Schwartzwalder (Dennis Quaid), who acted as a surrogate father and was fiercely dedicated to winning a national championship, Davis evolved from a standout high school player into a sports legend.

Although many acknowledged that Ernie Davis was a miracle player, few anticipated that this soft-spoken young man would become a symbol for the budding civil rights movement that was reshaping America in the early 1960s. By rejecting the unspoken racist norms of his time, Davis shattered numerous barriers, changing the perception of athletes of his race in the eyes of fans.

Despite facing a devastating blow in the prime of his life, his determination and spirit soared higher when others might have faltered. His journey compelled his obstinate coach to reevaluate a life shaped by color-based privilege and placed Davis among the ranks of black pioneers who galvanized a movement, breaking down barriers both on and off the field. > “He was a big deal. He was a pioneer.”