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.
4th and Long (Season 1)
4th Quarter Training (Episode 1)
Air date: 2009-05-18
Runtime: 60 min
Within Your Grasp (Episode 2)
Air date: 2009-05-25
Runtime: 60 min
Game Day (Episode 3)
Air date: 2009-06-01
Runtime: 60 min
The Red Zone (Episode 4)
Air date: 2009-06-08
Runtime: 60 min
Halfway There (Episode 5)
Air date: 2009-06-15
Runtime: 60 min
Great Sacrifices, Great Rewards (Episode 6)
Air date: 2009-06-22
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: 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.
The Rivals (Episode 7)
Air date: 2009-06-29
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: 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.
Moose Crossing (Episode 8)
Air date: 2009-07-06
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: 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.
Beating the Blocker (Episode 9)
Air date: 2009-07-13
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: 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.
Amongst the Stars (Episode 10)
Air date: 2009-07-20
Runtime: 60 min
Overview: 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.