Billy Jack Smith was an NAIA honorable mention All-America in 1983, a two-time NAIA all-district performer and first-team All-Central States Intercollegiate Conference pick while playing tackle on the Lions' offensive line. Smith led the blocking up front as star tailback Harold Noirfalise put together back-to-back 1,000-yard-plus rushing seasons in 1982 and '83.

In fact, the blocking of Smith, a four-year starter, helped Noirfalise and backup tailback Tommy Laughlin rank first and sixth, respectively, on the Lions' career rushing yardage list. The 1983 squad amassed more than 4,400 yards of total offense, including nearly 2,300 on the ground.

Smith, who was a four-year letterwinner with the Lions, later signed a free agent contract in 1984 with the then-Los Angeles Raiders of the NFL.

Smith now resides in Poteau, Okla.