When Celina tight end Andy James stood on the sidelines at Gerald J. Ford Stadium during pre-game warm-ups last Saturday, the senior prospect probably had different thoughts going through his head than the other recruits standing around him. After all, this wasn't the first game for James to witness first hand.

It was 28 years ago when SMU running back Craig James, Andy's father, teamed up with Eric Dickerson to make one of the most prolific running back tandems in the history of college football. Known as the "Pony Express", the two found themselves dancing into the records books on a weekly basis, many of which still stand today.

Though James wasn't alive then, he's grown up on the Hilltop. Coming back for player reunions and special occasions with his family, the hour drive from his hometown has never been a big deal.

Last Saturday's trip to SMU was unlike any other time he's frequented in the past.

"I've always gone with my dad. I've pretty much had the privilege of being his son. This was my first time being out there as my own person rather than being my dad's son. It was pretty cool."

James was there as a tight end prospect. Standing at 6-foot-1, 195-pounds, he's in the process of making his highlight tape to send around. While there hasn't been much mail or attention sent his way thus far, the Mustangs are one school that has continued to keep their relationship strong with the varsity starter.

"I met coach Bert Hill during seven on seven last spring. Then I went up there and visited as well. He called a few weeks back and invited me to the SMU vs. Tulsa game and I just went to that this past week. I got my first letter from them about two weeks ago."

Although James is looking to create his own identity at the next level, he couldn't help but think back to his father's day while listening to the Mustangs fight song last weekend.

"It's pretty cool to think that my dad probably went through the same situation that I'm in now. I just think about what it felt like for him. It's weird to think that he didn't always know that he was going to be a star at SMU. He was just like me."

The program isn't the same as it was when his father played but the new coaching staff is hoping to bring the Ponies back to the respect they once had in their glory days.

"They're playing the most freshmen in the nation right now. They're pretty impressive for a young team. They have a lot going for them in the future. I know that June Jones has had a pretty good coaching career previously. I'm anxious to see what he does with SMU."

What a story it would be if the new generation James got the opportunity to help resurrect his father's alma matter. While it's unknown as to whether or not he will get an offer from SMU, James will continue to listen to the advice that his father has given him.

"He's always said that he worked harder than anyone else in high school. I've just learned from his hard work, that it shows and it pays off."