Sports films are some of the most poignant and emotionally driven works in Hollywood; they can inspire, frustrate, and move audiences all at the same time. When done right, these movies can serve as a moving representation of what football is truly all about perseverance, confidence, hope, and the utmost importance of teamwork. A good sports film teaches audiences these lessons and inspires them along the way, utilizing the tension, comebacks, and glory of sports games to highlight the human experience.
While the debate continues as to whether Americans should even play football (due to the concussive, problematic danger of the sport), the NFL nonetheless continues to be the most-watched sports league in the country. While there have been a plethora of great documentaries about football exploring both its danger and its glory, Hollywood has also enjoyed telling stories about the game, dating back to Harold Lloyd’s 1925 classic comedy The Freshman, and viewers still can’t seem to get enough. With many films to choose from, not all titles have the staying power to become a football fan favorite; the NFL has changed its rules so many times that football movies can become technically outdated. Outside of documentaries, these are the best American football movies to grace the big screen.
Update February 8, 2024: With the Super Bowl coming up, this article has been updated to include more details on great football movies to watch while you get hyped for the game and where each title is streaming.
15 North Dallas Forty (1979)
Based on Peter Gant’s semi-autobiography with the same title from the year 1973, North Dallas Forty tells the story of Phill Elliott, who is the North Dallas Bulls’ wide receiver. The film reveals the hardships this veteran player is facing as he disagrees with the decisions made about his future. Going head to head with the rich owners of the club, Phill is slowly drowning under the pressure and difficulties of being in public and the use of his pain medications. Framed within the unpredictable realm of professional football, the movie mainly probes the sport’s concealed shady side. Beneath the roaring applause exists a world steeped in complexity, ardor, and the trials that define these players.
What Makes It Great
North Dallas Forty draws a connection to the real-life football team, Dallas Cowboys, of which the author was a part for several years. Most films glorify athletes’ existence, yet North Dallas Forty courageously exposes its murky depths. It offers a glimpse into the depths beyond the spotlight and the press conferences, revealing the strenuous and often painful parts of being a professional football player. Addressing unsettling matters like substance abuse, physical strains, and the stark contrast of public praise against personal anguish, the movie dismantles the footballer’s shimmering image. The film boasts gripping match sequences that display the sport’s sheer brutality, both physical and mental, weaving a touching tale that lingers after the credits roll. Rent on AppleTV
14 The Express (2008)
the express
- Release Date
- October 10, 2008
- Director
- Gary Fleder
The biopic The Express epitomizes the triumphant saga of Ernie Davis, a man earning the distinction of being the premier African-American Heisman Trophy recipient. The film specifically follows the relationship between the talented player, who is portrayed by Rob Brown, and Dennis Quaid’s Ben Schwartzwalder, who was his coach for four years at Syracuse University. During a time that saw the rise of civil rights movements, Davis continued to face hardships and experienced racism on a daily basis. Whether it is in town, on campus, during a game or even within his team, the athlete is set to rise above these difficulties and has an outstanding journey ahead of him. Davis’s story transcends mere gameplay; it signifies shattering conventional norms and breaking down traditional barriers.
What Makes It Great
The Express is a memorable story about finding inspiration and utter dedication, rooting for a talented young man, and wanting him to succeed. It beautifully captures the transition from every player fighting for themselves to building a team that is made out of gifted individuals but still comes together to rise to success. The film brims with defining junctures that led Davis to achieve monumental feats, with a nuanced realism that connects the audience with his struggles and victories. The movie emblemizes defiance in the face of racial bigotry. Davis’s road to prominence, littered with hurdles, reflects the broader societal clashes of his era. Yet, his zeal extended beyond touchdowns, illuminating a path for countless others, making this movie an intense and inspirational spectacle to watch. Stream on Peacock
13 Gridiron Gang (2006)
Gridiron Gang
- Release Date
- September 15, 2006
- Director
- Phil Joanou
Gridiron Gang is a sports drama that loosely depicts the story of the Kilpatrick Mustangs during the 1990 season, a team that is based out of a juvenile detention camp. Left with little to no possibility of filling their days with something exciting and fulfilling, the kids there are struggling to get their heads set in the right direction. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson stars as coach Sean Porter, who works at the center as a probation officer and sees the lack of support firsthand. He decides to create a football team, so the kids can have a purpose and direction.
What Makes It Great
The film is an uplifting story that sheds light on troubled youths while delivering a moving performance from Johnson. To be fair, one look at Johnson and one motivational speech seems to be enough to kick-start success, but in general, the actor does an impressive job diving straight into his character and building a visible connection between him and the players. Gridiron Gang is a perfect fit for the star, who himself played college football at the University of Miami. It reveals the many downsides of juvenile detention camps and shows how little is done to affect kids positively. Once again, football is used in a wonderful way to create a bond between troubled kids and send them on a better path. Stream on Netflix
12 Draft Day (2014)
Vibrant in its setting, Draft Day captures the NFL Draft’s challenges. It showcases how the Cleveland Browns general manager, Sonny Weaver Jr, who is played by Kevin Costner, grapples with hurdles and has to make a potentially life-changing decision. Intertwining are his personal and professional lives, with the tricky decisions arising from the draft whether he should go for a professional athlete whose future might be marked with difficulties or a promising newcomer who brings along a questionable past. Intriguing in its portrayal, the movie unveils football management’s intricacies, and it delves beyond mere player selection.
What Makes It Great
Pivotal are the decisions, immense is the legacy’s pressure, and the need to balance human elements with the business-oriented nature of the game. Dynamic in execution, the draft trades invigorate the storyline. Revealing deeper layers and revelations that unveil the manager’s core emotions, leaving audiences contemplative and thrilled by the narrative of this high-pressure sports movie. The pressure is palpable as Weaver meets his inner turmoil amid the passion for his often demanding job.
The late actor Chadwick Bosman stepped into the role of the promising young athlete, Vontae Mack, who has good intentions but a lot to say, and it is safe to say that he delivered a captivating as well as complex performance, effortlessly showing all aspects of Mack’s rise. It’s another great film from an actor who was tragically taken from us too soon. Stream on AMC+ and Freevee.
11 Invincible (2006)
Remarkable in its origin, Invincible narrates the true story of Vince Papale’s extraordinary journey, and it stars Mark Wahlberg as the main character. Spending his days as a 30-year-old bartender and facing constant hurdles such as losing his job as a substitute teacher and facing divorce from his wife, who lost faith in him, Papale’s luck finally takes a turn. The coach of the Philadelphia Eagles, Dick Vermeil (Greg Kinnear), is holding tryouts to join the team, and after overcoming his doubts, Vince takes the chance and presents his best performance on the field. In 1976, he eventually beats the odds, and the football lover morphs into a Philadelphia Eagles player.
What Makes It Great
Amidst prevailing doubt, Vince’s saga stands as an enduring tribute to the human spirit. Transcending mere gridiron tales, the narrative embodies the American dream. Each pass, every score encapsulates a nation’s pulse. Cheering for the underdog, embracing resilience, and defying adversity are sentiments that resonate with viewers. The story is built on a thorough foundation, taking its time, in the beginning, to establish a proper base, ensuring that the viewers get a clear introduction of the characters and creating an emotional connection and understanding, especially about the main character’s ups and downs. All these elements make it a tale of grit and perseverance that is definitely worth a watch. Stream on Disney+
10 We Are Marshall (2006)
Heart-wrenching in its premise, We Are Marshall dives into a 1970 aviation tragedy. A real-life crash extinguished 75 lives, predominantly those of Marshall University’s football team and coaching staff. Grief engulfs both the town and its academic institution, casting an overwhelming shadow. One player, Nate Ruffin, who is portrayed by Anthony Mackie, had to stay at home due to illness, which ultimately saved his life. Devasted by this traumatizing accident, Ruffin wants to gather students and unite with them to find comfort in football once again; however, since they are in need of a new coach, Jack Lengyel, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, steps in and brings along the necessary motivation.
What Makes It Great
Starring Hollywood legends Matthew McConaughey and Anthony Mackie, We Are Marshall gave these two a great platform to show off their acting skills. Both add soul and joy to this feel-good movie, really tapping into the essence of creating a community and a special bon amid a difficult time. Surpassing a mere historical account, the film becomes a heartwarming, spirit-filled odyssey to bounce back from the tragedy. It elevates beyond a melancholic retelling. Illuminating human endurance, We Are Marshall emerges as a beacon for hope. Demonstrating the profound impact of sports on community ties, especially that of football. Rent or purchase on AppleTV, Vudu, or Prime Video
9 Rudy (1993)
Rudy
- Release Date
- September 17, 1993
- Director
- David Anspaugh
Based on the life of Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, David Anspaugh’s Rudy is one of the ultimate underdog stories and remains one of football’s greatest feel-good films. Long before Lord of the Rings, Sean Astin starred as the titular Rudy, a young man on the journey of playing football at the University of Notre Dame, despite numerous obstacles thrown his way. Constantly having to face the hurdle of being told that he is too short, not athletic enough, and not healthy enough to become a football player, this dedicated young man is set to convince everyone otherwise, fulfill his dream, and create a wonderful life for himself.
What Makes It Great
The film is famous for its mixed-bag response: viewers either love it for its heartfelt message or think its football story is muddled by all the sometimes sappy sentimentalism. Regardless, since its release in 1993, Rudy has been featured on numerous football film lists and was ranked the 54th-most inspiring film of all time in the American Film Institute’s “100 Years” series. Needless to say, a story about an underdog who takes on the rocky journey of achieving his dream is one to be celebrated. Especially due to Astin’s outstanding performance, the portrayal of Rudy’s path is touching and believable, leading viewers to root for his success. Rudy provides a heartfelt story that is relatable to anyone out there following their dreams, even if they might seem impossible to achieve.Rent or purchase on AppleTV, Vudu, or Prime Video
8 Varsity Blues (1999)
Varsity Blues
- Release Date
- January 15, 1999
- Director
- Brian Robbins
The coming-of-age drama Varsity Blues features an impressive cast, including James Van Der Beek (at the height of his Dawson’s Creek fame), Paul Walker, Jon Voight, and Scott Caan. The premise follows a small-town high school football team through a troubling season as the players navigate the pressures of adolescence both on the field and off. When Lance Harbor, the quarterback of the West Canaan Coyotes, who is portrayed by Paul Walker, is injured, Van der Beek’s John Moxon is sent in as a replacement, but his leadership entails a questionable approach.
What Makes It Great
Varsity Blue is a compelling movie that tackles the tough sides of being a teenage athlete and reveals all aspects, from the high pressure on and off the field all the way to parties and drinking. Van Der Beek delivers a strong performance as the soft-spoken quarterback who goes toe-to-toe with his volatile and downright mean head coach (Voight), and keeps the energy going from beginning to end. Though filled with some clichés, the talented cast and honest representation of the hope football brings in a small town truly hit the mark. The film dives into the deep obsessions that can evolve from this sport and simultaneously reveals the immense pressure that can come from it. Rent or purchase on AppleTV, Vudu, or Prime Video
7 Any Given Sunday (1999)
With an all-star cast including big names like Al Pacino, Cameron Diaz, Jamie Foxx, and Dennis Quaid, Any Given Sunday is partly based on NFL defensive end Pat Toomay’s 1984 novel On Any Given Sunday. The Oliver Stone film follows Pacino as the Miami Sharks’ head coach, Tony D’Amato, who has devoted his life to the team and sport via untraditional methods. When devastating cicrumstances lead to the need for a quarterback replacement, Willie Beaman gets a chance to show off his skills after spending years of watching the game from the bench. Coming in like a fresh breath of air, D’Amato has to reevaluate his strategies, accept some hard truths, and deal with the pressure he gets from the team’s co-president, Christina Pagniacci, who is finding her foot in a male-dominated sport.
What Makes It Great
Any Given Sunday offers a truthful depiction of how events can take a turn in this sport and conveys the struggles players and coaches alike have to face. The overall idea of this film is to show that in order to be a part of a team and be successful with games, it is necessary to pour your entire soul into this union. Thinking with only the head creates difficulties and hurts the team spirit. This film wonderfully depicts the forming of a bond and the important aspects of football. It is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the life of a football coach and the players he helps mold, and it is a good fit for Stone’s typically bombastic and epic direction. Jamie Foxx showed off his skills on the field, having once passed over 1,000 yards during a single season in high school, bringing a wonderful start to his acting career. Rent or purchase on AppleTV, Vudu, or Prime Video
6 The Waterboy (1998)
1998’s hilarious sports comedy The Waterboy stars Hollywood-favorite Adam Sandler as Bobby Boucher Jr., who is a socially inept water boy for the South Central Louisiana State University Mud Dogs. While it seems as though there is no chance of him becoming an official member of the team, an incident ends up turning his life upside down. After being bullied by the team’s quarterback, Bobby swiftly knocks the player out and stuns the team’s coach and player with his hidden skills. He is subsequently hired as a soon-to-be-feared linebacker, but with a dominant mother, he is forced to keep his new passion a secret.
What Makes It Great
Considering that Adam Sandler is starring as the lead character, there is little to no doubt that laughter and entertainment is guaranteed. Sandler’s hilarious and good-natured portrayal really helps propel this funny football flick. The actor is known for effortlessly stepping into new roles, delivering a complex and authentic performance that has viewers glued to the screen. Kathy Bates co-stars as Bobby’s Mama Helen in a surprising and bizarre but amusing performance, and their chemistry is palpable as they create a hilarious mother-son relationship. The Waterboy has garnered a cult following and is a great example of comedy tackling the sports genre and running with it. Ultimately, it is another underdog story, which shows that talent and skills can be hidden anywhere and sometimes just need an unexpected event to let them out. Stream on Hulu
5 The Longest Yard (1974)
The classic sports comedy The Longest Yard was a massive hit upon its release in 1974, following a former NFL player called Paul Crewe, who ends up in prison after a drunk driving incident. When his past comes to light, a deceitful prison guard, Warden Hazen, gives him the task of forming a team in prison. Crewe recruits a group of fellow prisoners to play football, but the idea is to play against the sadistic guards. The odds don’t seem to be in the prisoner’s favor, but when Crewe forms a bond with other convicts and learns about Nate Scarborough, who was a successful coach before his imprisonment, the team spirit grows, and so do their chances of beating the guards.
What Makes It Great
Starring Burt Reynolds as former pro quarterback Paul “Wrecking” Crewe, the film is so popular that it has been remade three times, most recently in 2005 starring Adam Sandler with Reynolds returning. The Longest Yard also featured real-life football players, including Green Bay Packers legend Ray Nitschke. The humorous and down-and-dirty flick is a beloved favorite and staple among football fans and guarantees to capture even non-football fans’ attention. Overall, the theme of revealing the harsh truths of the penalty system and showing a growing connection between the inmates is shown in an authentic and touching, yet also entertaining way. In particular, the match is conveyed in a believable manner, which allows for continuous excitement while rooting for the player. Stream on Prime Video and Paramount+
4 Remember the Titans (2000)
Based on the true story of coach Herman Boone, Remember the Titans follows the football coach as he attempts to integrate T.C. Williams High School football team in Alexandria, Virginia, in 1971. Mixing the all-white with an all-black school brings along immense difficulties, which all need to be tackled. Despite racial prejudice running ragged, Boone’s leadership never falters, and he is set on bringing all of his players together. He manages to inspire his players to be the best that they can be, and leads them along the path of overcome their own narrow minds and other obstacles.
What Makes It Great
The legendary Denzel Washington beautifully portrays Boone, and his performance is both profound and moving. He takes on this role with such care, ensuring that he delivers an authentic portrayal that is worthy of Boone. With an impressive supporting cast including Will Patton, Ryan Hurst, and Ryan Gosling, the film truly packs an emotional punch, making Remember the Titans revered as one of the greatest football films of all time. The movie carries the important message that sports have the power to unite even those who have no interest in working together. It beautifully conveys the bond that is formed through team spirit, putting racial differences to the side, working together as a team, and actually bringing about change. Thanks to it’s constitutional present on Disney Channel, the film is a football classic for an entire generation. Stream on Disney+
3 Heaven Can Wait (1978)
Heaven Can Wait stars Warren Beaty as Joe Pendleton, a backup quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams who is about to have his big break to lead a team to the Super Bowl. However, his fate takes a turn when he is accidentally mistaken for having died and is brought straight to heaven. When the mix-up is discovered, a daunting reality hits him. He finds out that he cannot return to Earth as his body has been cremated and instead placed in the body of a multimillionaire who was drugged by his wife and business associate. When Joe takes control of the body, he buys his old football team and becomes the starting quarterback.
What Makes It Great
The Oscar-winning Heaven Can Wait is the perfect mix of high-concept comedy and the general adult-oriented filmmaking of the 1970s; while reading the premise does not sound like football plays a major role, it has a huge impact on the story. It not only leads to one of the funniest scenes where Joe relates business practices to being on a football team, but also the film’s climax sees the Super Bowl take place and Joe put in the body of a young player who is set to die, and by taking over while ensuring Joe doesn’t remember anything about his past life. The film manages to create an overall fairy tale setting and keeps the entire storyline entertaining without turning overly corny. It is emotionally moving and one of the best movies about football ever. Stream on Prime Video and Paramount+
2 Brian’s Song (1971)
The deeply moving and tear-jerking biography Brian’s Song is a TV movie that depicts the real life of Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers. When Sayers becomes a member of the Chicago Bears, he immediately finds a friend in Piccolo. Despite their racial differences and both being headstrong and dedicated to their success, they grow fond of each other and form a strong friendship. Whether it is an injury or other incidents, the two are always there for each other and even become roommates. However, they are hit with harsh news when Piccolo is diagnosed with terminal cancer after making it to the pros in 1965.
What Makes It Great
Brian’s Song is told through his friendship with Bears teammate Gale Sayers and displays their differing temperaments and racial backgrounds as the pair became the first interracial roommates in NFL history. Starring James Caan as Piccolo and Billy Dee Williams as Sayers, Brian’s Song is an uplifting and enriching story that truly stays with audiences and is considered one of the greatest, most emotional television films ever made. The film does not only highlight the bonds that are formed in football teams but, most importantly, it tells the story of an incredible friendship, which, despite all the adversity, remained strong and even continued to grow. This is a movie that made an entire generation of men cry and still has the power to do so today. Rent on AppleTV
1 Friday Night Lights (2004)
The film that would inspire an equally great television series, Friday Night Lights, is based on the 1990 H.G. Bissinger book and depicts the real-life football coach and team of Odessa, Texas. With economic difficulties and racial divisions, this small town doesn’t have much to offer. Expect one thing: Friday Nights. With the town’s successful football team, The Permian Panthers, the people of Odessa rely on football to bring them joy. However, when one of the most talented players, Bobbie Miles (Derek Luke) is taken off the team due to a career-ending injury, the entire team as well as the town loses hope. Football coach Gary Gaines, who is portrayed by Billy Bob Thornton, strives to help this group of Texas teens navigate their lives both within and outside the football world and bring them back to the heights of success.
What Makes It Great
The movie perfectly portrays the football-obsessed mentality of many small towns and contains some of the most inspirational monologs in cinematic history. The film delivers a humane depiction of triumph and loss while ensuring that all the characters and the difficulties they face are relatable and authentic. It captures the bonds formed in football and the hope football can give to people. Instead of falling into clichés, the film guides the viewers through this compelling story with ease, providing them with melancholy and cheerfulness alike. Both Friday Night Lights and the subsequent series are the most outstanding representations of football in film and television. Stream on FuboTV and MGM+.
This story originally appeared on Movieweb
