For 11 weeks, Houston's Eddie Jackson wowed Food Network Star mentors Bobby Flay and Giada De Laurentiis with his bold, creative takes on classic Caribbean fare, as well as his ease and warmth on camera. Now, after successfully pitching a pilot to the network and earning the coveted title of Food Network Star, this former NFL player is off to shine a light on two of his longtime passions: barbecue and friendly competition.

In his upcoming series, BBQ Blitz, premiering Friday, Oct. 9 at 10:30|9:30c, Eddie will head to cities across the country and challenge three chef legends each to a face-off of touchdown proportions. Eddie will be on hand to oversee the battles, and he'll catch up with the competitors about what makes their 'cue the hottest of them all as these smokers, grillers and fire fanatics compete for bragging rights as the best-ever BBQ chef — and a whopping $5,000 prize.

Eddie will visit Miami, where he played pro ball, as well as his home state of Texas and other barbecue-focused hot spots, including Alabama. This traveling contest will cover not only smoking competition but surely plenty of stories and 'cue how-tos from the host as well.

• Get to Know Eddie
• Watch Eddie's Winning Moment on Food Network Star
• Photos: Eddie's Journey to Stardom

Mark your calendars for Eddie's premiere series, BBQ Blitz, premiering Friday, Oct. 9 at 10:30|9:30c.