The Garbage Picking Field Goal Kicking Philadelphia Phenomenon

Plot

Barney Gorman, a Philadelphia garbageman, takes pride in his work, but his family feels embarrassed by his job. A lifelong Eagles fan, Barney is also frustrated by the team's losing streak.

Unbeknownst to him, a sticky lever on his garbage truck has been building up his leg strength. While at the city dump, he launches a water jug an incredible distance, catching the eye of Eagles executives who are scouting the site for a new stadium. The coach offers Barney a spot as the team's kicker, a move the owner sees as a great publicity stunt: giving an ordinary guy a chance in the NFL.

Barney joins the Eagles but faces cold shoulders from his teammates, especially his roommate, Bubba Downs. Once he starts nailing crucial field goals, the fans and his teammates warm up, dubbing him "G-Man." Success goes to his head, however, and he becomes arrogant, talking down to the very players who supported him. In the next big game, he shanks a potential game-winning kick, ending the Eagles' playoff hopes.

Depressed and alone, Barney goes to a bar. An attractive blonde woman approaches, asks if he is Barney Gorman, and requests a photo. As the picture is taken, she kisses him, then thanks him with a sly smile and walks away.

Things spiral. Barney gets suspended from the team. He misses a date with his wife, Marie, who then sees the photo of the kiss in the newspaper. When he gets home, he finds his suitcase on the doorstep, along with the incriminating newspaper clipping.

After some serious reflection, Barney comes to his senses. He apologizes to his wife, his son, his father, and his teammates. The Eagles let him return for the final game of the season. The game comes down to another last-second field goal.

The holder fumbles the snap, but Barney scoops up the ball and runs it in for the game-winning touchdown. At the end-of-season press conference, Barney remembers where he came from. He reminds everyone that garbagemen deserve respect, too, because they work hard to keep the city clean.

Cast

Tony Danza plays Barney Gorman, with Jessica Tuck as his wife Marie Gorman. Art LaFleur portrays Gus Rogenheimer, and Jaime Cardriche plays Bubba.

Julie Stewart appears as an Eagles Recruiter, Gil Filar as Danny Gorman, Al Ruscio as Mr. Gorman, and Ray Wise as Randolph Pratt. The cast includes many well-known figures from professional football in minor roles or cameos, including Philadelphia Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie, sportscaster Chris Berman, and NFL footage with Troy Aikman. Mike Vanderjagt served as the kicking double for Tony Danza.