Guessed wrong the first time be replacing the Thrust bearing assembly, and still had the smoking motor no turning symptom. Then I realized it really was the motor after seeing the smoking issue without the belt even connected. (no load) Put in the new motor and now it turns nice and smoothly! Wifey has been working her way through the built up pile of dirty clothes this weekend without issue.
Great site you guys! the videos are SO helpful. Watching them took away all my fear of fixing it myself. I probably saved $150 in labor.