Texas trip stirs memories for Montgomery

GREEN BAY – Former Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith was on the verge of history when Ty Montgomery’s Pop Warner team played a halftime scrimmage at Texas Stadium in 2002.

Montgomery, the Green Bay Packers' starting running back, remembers breaking a 60-yard touchdown run in the scrimmage.

“I went right up the middle,” Montgomery said.

Montgomery also remembers a shorter run in the fourth quarter. Smith took a handoff and picked up 11 yards over the left guard, breaking Walter Payton’s record to become the NFL’s all-time leading rusher.

It wasn’t the only time Montgomery has watched the Cowboys play in Dallas. When he was growing up there, Montgomery would work a small, side concession stand at Texas Stadium, selling hot dogs and water.

With the Packers traveling to Dallas for their NFC divisional round playoff game Sunday, those memories have filled Montgomery’s mind this week.

“I always had dreams of playing in Cowboys Stadium,” Montgomery said. “I remember, specifically up to this day, I remember having a dream of playing running back in Texas Stadium. I didn’t know that AT&T (Stadium) was going to be built. This was back in the old Texas Stadium.”

Montgomery, a third-round pick in 2015, was still a wide receiver when the Cowboys traveled to Lambeau Field earlier this year. He led the Packers with 10 catches for 98 yards in the loss. Four days later, he moved to running back to replace injured Eddie Lacy and hasn’t looked back.

McGINN: Dorsey ideal option as next Packers GM

RELATED: Packers all business for Cowboys game

RELATED: Avoiding fumbles a point of pride​

RELATED: Janis should be 'just about 100 percent'

Now, Montgomery will realize his boyhood dream, albeit against the Cowboys. It’s been a whirlwind second season for Montgomery. At times, he said, it’s been hard not to reflect on his journey.

But he’s focused on what lies ahead.

“Once the season is over,” Montgomery said, “I’ll reflect on that. But at times, I’ve caught myself.”