About this season
4th and Long is a reality television series hosted by Michael Irvin that premiered on Spike on May 18, 2009. The winner of the show earned a spot at the Dallas Cowboys training camp - with a shot of making the roster. The show pits six wide receivers against six defensive backs. The show was filmed at the Cotton Bowl, with Joe Avezzano as the coach for the receivers and Bill Bates as the coach for the backs. The athletes have varying backgrounds, including national champions, CFL players, arena league veterans, semi-pro players, and those who have tried to make NFL rosters.
Episodes (10)
1. 4th Quarter Training
Aired 18 May 2009 • 60 min
2. Within Your Grasp
Aired 25 May 2009 • 60 min
3. Game Day
Aired 1 June 2009 • 60 min
4. The Red Zone
Aired 8 June 2009 • 60 min
5. Halfway There
Aired 15 June 2009 • 60 min
6. Great Sacrifices, Great Rewards
Aired 22 June 2009 • 60 min
The players earn a night on the town with Michael Irvin, and a brief taste of the limelight that comes with being a professional football player. However, the following day their resolve is tested in a sadistic conditioning drill that won't end until one player quits. Guest appearance by Kelvin Martin.
7. The Rivals
Aired 29 June 2009 • 60 min
A rival team made up of previously eliminated players - intent on earning their spot back on the roster - arrive to challenge the remaining players to a full 4 quarter battle. Guest appearance by Jerry Rice.
8. Moose Crossing
Aired 6 July 2009 • 60 min
Fatigue and injury has started affecting everyone, but former Cowboy Daryl Johnston arrives to rally their spirits and encourage them through an exhausting drill known as the "Super Gauntlet." Guest appearance by Daryl Johnston.
9. Beating the Blocker
Aired 13 July 2009 • 60 min
The 5 remaining players go head to head in a series of drills designed to test an essential skill set for special teams players: delivering and shedding blocks.
10. Amongst the Stars
Aired 20 July 2009 • 60 min
The drills for this episode were focused on special teams play. Each player received a kick while the other players beat blockers to make the tackle. Hawkins impressed with his quickness and agility.