Emmitt Smith knows about winning. The 3-time Superbowl champ has had a lot of experience. Is it any surprise that he came from behind to knock Mario Lopez off the throne?
Mario Lopez was supposed to win the third season of "Dancing with the Stars". The bookmakers had him down as a favorite. He had the moves. He was technically better than Emmitt Smith. However, the luscious Lopez with the cavernous dimples couldn't capture America's heart in quite the same way that the burly, bulky and bald ex-football pro, Smith, did.
In the end, the judges left the decision up to the viewing audience. They gave the remaining two contestants almost the same scores. Lopez, in a routine that judge Carrie Inaba called, 'the best dance she'd seen all year', earned a perfect score. Smith, who came a long way during the competition, received a 29. After the competition ended on Tuesday night, it was still anyone's game.
On Wednesday, the American people had their say. Emmitt trounced Mario in the voting.
Smith was partnered with Cheryl Burke, the dancing instructor who helped Drew Lachey dance to victory last season. Burke said of her partner, "From the beginning, he just wanted to be the best possible dancer he can be." His hard work, gentlemanly ways and laid-back style made him a fan favorite and dancing's newest 'superstar'.
Congrats, Emmitt!
