Charles A. “Bubba” Smith graduated from Charlton-Pollard High School in Beaumont, Texas, where he played football for his father, Coach Willie Ray Smith, one of the most successful high school coaches in Texas history. Bubba was a dominant force on both sides of the ball and earned All-State honors, establishing himself as one of the top prep players in the nation.

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Smith went on to play for Michigan State University, where he became one of the school’s all-time greats. A two-time All-Big Ten and consensus All-American selection in 1965 and 1966, he helped lead the Spartans through two undefeated seasons and a share of the national championship in 1966. His combination of size, speed, and strength made him nearly unstoppable—whether lined up at tackle, defensive end, or middle guard. Michigan State fans famously chanted, “Kill, Bubba, Kill!” during games at Spartan Stadium. In 1988, Smith was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.

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In the 1967 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Colts made Smith the first overall pick. Although his rookie season was hampered by injuries, he rebounded in his second year, helping the Colts to a remarkable 15–1 record. Over six seasons with Baltimore, he became a cornerstone of one of the league’s most formidable defenses. His best season came in 1971, when he recorded nine sacks and four blocked field goals. Smith played in the 1968 NFL Championship Game, Super Bowl III (1969), and Super Bowl V (1971), helping the Colts capture their first Super Bowl title. He earned All-AFC honors in 1970 and 1971 and was selected to the Pro Bowl in both seasons.

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After undergoing knee surgery, Smith was traded to the Oakland Raiders in 1973 in exchange for tight end Raymond Chester. He later finished his professional career with the Houston Oilers, retiring in 1977 after ten productive NFL seasons.

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Following his football career, Smith achieved success in entertainment. He first gained national fame starring in the Miller Lite beer commercials, where his size and humor made him a fan favorite. Later, he became best known for his role as Moses Hightower in the Police Academy movie series. Despite the success of the Miller Lite campaign, Smith eventually withdrew, stating he didn’t want to promote alcohol to children.

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Off the field, Smith remained deeply committed to education and community service. He established an engineering scholarship at Michigan State University and frequently returned to campus to mentor student-athletes. Later in life, he served as president and CEO of Vital Aircraft Company in Los Angeles, where he advocated for minority participation in government defense contracts.

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Bubba Smith passed away in 2011 at the age of 66, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of football’s most dominant defenders and one of Hollywood’s most recognizable former athletes. His impact on the game and beyond continues to inspire new generations of players and fans.