Alois Blackwell

Alois Sterling Blackwell (born November 12, 1954) is a former professional American football running back in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys and Kansas City Chiefs. He played college football at the University of Houston.

Early years

Blackwell attended Cuero High School, before moving on to the University of Houston.

In 1976, he became the starter at running back, registering 934 rushing yards and 8 touchdowns, while posting four 100-yard rushing games and helping the team to a Southwest Conference co-championship. In the 1977 Cotton Bowl, he rushed for 149 yards, 2 touchdowns, earned offensive MVP honors and contributed to a number 4 national ranking, which was the highest in school history.

In 1977 as a senior, he tallied 1,169 rushing yards, second in the SWC behind Earl Campbell and fifth best in school history. He also scored 11 touchdowns, while having six 100-yard rushing games.

He finished his college career with 2,467 rushing yards (third in school history), a 5.8-yard average and 21 touchdowns (third in school history). In 2010, he was inducted into the University of Houston Hall of Honor.

Professional career

Dallas Cowboys

Blackwell was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth round (110th overall) of the 1978 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he mostly covered kickoffs and was considered one of the hardest hitters on special teams. He played in Super Bowl XII. On October 22, 1979, he was waived to make room for John Dutton.

Kansas City Chiefs

In 1980, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs as a free agent. He was placed on the injured reserve list on August 19.

Personal life

Blackwell worked in the Houston Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. He was the Texas Southern University athletic director from 2001 to 2008.