The Express is a sports drama based on the true life story of college football hero Ernie Davis (played by Ron Brown), the first African-American to win the Heisman Trophy. In 1962, the Syracruse University star was the NFL.s number one draft pick, but he would never get to play a professional game, falling victim to leukemia at the age of 23. He life was as inspirational as it was short, with Davis becoming a sports and civil rights hero. President John F. Kennedy championed him, saying, .Seldom has an athlete been more deserving of such a tribute.The nation has bestowed upon you its highest awards for your athletic achievements. It’s a privilege for me to address you tonight as an outstanding American, and as a worthy example of our youth. I salute you.”. Dennis Quaid plays Syracruse coach, Ben Schwartzwalder. The screenplay comes from Charles Leavitt (Blood Diamond) and is based on Robert C. Gallagher.s Davis biography. This film is out on Oct. 3.