Dennis Quaid has signed on to star in Universal Pictures "The Express," a film based on the true story of football great Ernie Davis.
Davis broke college football records and racial barriers in the early 1960s playing at Syracuse University, becoming the first black player to win the Heisman Trophy.
The running back was drafted into the NFL, but his career was cut short when he was diagnosed with leukemia.
Quaid will play Davis' coach, who eventually becomes his champion. The role of Davis has not been cast.
Charles Leavitt ("Blood Diamond") wrote the latest draft of the script, and Gary Fleder is directing. Shooting is scheduled to begin in March.
