Why does Stephen A. Smith hate the Dallas Cowboys so much?

Stephen A. Smith is one of the most popular sports analysts on the planet, and his hatred of the Dallas Cowboys is legendary. So much so that the ESPN anchor is hard to ignore on the internet. Smith is among the most memed individuals on social media and comes across as a loud public figure, to put it lightly.

Alongside Skip Bayless, Smith is known for having some of the wildest and most ludicrous takes on television, yet it somehow works. Stephen A. Smith has a lot of catchphrases and many involve his disdain for the Cowboys.

Since the last 90s, when Smith first started appearing on television, he has found it difficult to conceal his loathing of America's team. This has been going on for decades, and Dallas' underachievement has only added fuel to the fire. Stephen A. Smith cannot hold his tongue and fans have endured his shenanigans for years.

It might surprise you, but Smith's loathing of America's team does not stem from sporting merits but rather something fairly personal. Smith said in an old interview that the reason behind his dislike for the franchise stems back to his first love interest way back in high school. The current ESPN headliner was once head over heels for a girl back in high school who was a Cowboys fan.

According to Stephen A. Smith:

"The truth is, she was my first girl. My first love. And I’ll never forget her for as long as I live. Unfortunately, though, here's what I remember most, that damn No. 33 Cowboys jersey she always wore."

His heartbreak ended his chances of looking at the Dallas Cowboys with anything other than dislike and displeasure:

"It's undeniable when you remember January 5, 1985. The day after, the Dallas Cowboys lost to the Los Angeles Rams in the playoffs. Recalling that you were dumped because Tony Dorsett rushed for only 58 yards in a playoff loss."

How are the Dallas Cowboys performing this season?

Dallas are having a good 2022 NFL season, as they are keeping up to their preseason expectations. The Cowboys already have a reputation for breezing through the regular season, so all eyes will be on the postseason, which they've qualified for.

They have a 10-4 record and were on a four-game winning streak before the Jacksonville Jaguars beat them in overtime. They will be looking to pick themselves up as they face off against conference rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles. You can expect there to be fireworks on Dallas' home turf.

How is Tony Pollard performing this season?

Tony Pollard deserves to be highlighted here as the fourth-year pro has usurped Ezekiel Elliott as the lead running back in Dallas. Pollard's performances this season have been spectacular, reminding us of a certain early version of Zeke. Pollard's great form isn't just recognized in Texas, but by the entire league, with him earning a Pro Bowl selection for his efforts.

Pollard's presence frees Zeke from some of his burdens and allows the team to run a different system. Pollard has recorded 894 rushing yards, nine rushing touchdowns and three more TDs through the air this season.