Top 50 Best American Football Movies Of All Time [2026 Updated]

"Horse Feathers" (1932) is a timeless pre-Code comedy that centers on Professor Quincy Adam Wagstaff, who finds himself taking over as the new president of Huxley College.

The story unfolds when Wagstaff's son, Frank, persuades him to bring in two seasoned athletes, hoping to boost their football team's chances against their fierce rivals at Darwin School.

This film sparkles with clever humor and delivers a spirited script filled with college football chaos, making it a standout in the sports comedy genre.

Decades after its release, the film's hilarious antics and sharp dialogue continue to entertain fans, proving its lasting comedic appeal.

Notably, "Horse Feathers" has earned recognition from the American Film Institute on several distinguished lists, such as AFI's 100 Years...100 Laughs (2000), 100 Years...100 Movie Quotes (2005), and AFI's 10 Top 10 (2008).

It might come as a surprise to find the acclaimed romantic comedy-drama "Silver Linings Playbook" featured among the top football movies. However, football plays a quiet yet pivotal role throughout the story, serving as a meaningful thread that ties together the characters' relationships and motivations.

Directed and written by David O. Russell, the film follows Pat, a man recovering from a traumatic episode that led to his stay in a mental health facility. After his release, Pat crosses paths with Tiffany, a woman facing her own emotional struggles and searching for hope, connection, and healing.

Bradley Cooper delivers a nuanced performance as Pat, capturing his complexity and vulnerability. With Jennifer Lawrence and Robert De Niro offering compelling support, the film is elevated by their powerful chemistry and dynamic portrayals. "Silver Linings Playbook" ultimately stands out as a moving and uplifting cinematic experience, making its place on this list truly well-deserved.

Directed by T.J. Martin and Daniel Lindsay, Undefeated tells the inspiring real-life story of three underprivileged students from inner-city Memphis as they journey toward success despite overwhelming adversity.

The documentary offers a compelling portrayal of their volunteer coach, whose tireless devotion helps guide these young athletes both on and off the football field, providing critical support amid difficult circumstances.

Focusing on the Manassas Tigers high school football team during the 2009 season, the film intimately reveals the players' struggles and celebrations, painting a vivid picture of their lives beyond sports.

Debuting at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival's New Frontier program, Undefeated masterfully underscores that high school athletics are filled with remarkable, underreported stories that deserve attention.

Recipient of the Academy Award for Best Documentary, the film stands out for its honest depiction of the challenges these teens face, highlighting the resilience required to navigate life's harshest obstacles at a young age.

"Harvard Beats Yale 29-29," directed by Tommy Lee Jones, transports viewers to November 1968 for one of college football's most storied games. The film chronicles the tense battle between two undefeated teams, where Yale seemed assured of victory, holding a 29-13 lead with only 42 seconds on the clock. What follows is one of the sport's most thrilling comebacks.

Enhanced by thoughtful commentary from Bud Collins, Tony Kornheiser, and George Plimpton, the documentary features captivating interviews with players from both sides who share their experiences of the unforgettable 1968 season.

After ESPN featured the documentary in October 2008, a new generation of fans was introduced to a game long celebrated as "the most famous football game in Ivy League history." With masterful storytelling, the film captures every dramatic twist that made this clash eternally memorable.

"Mash" emerges as a truly distinctive entry on our list of top American football movies. Directed by the acclaimed Robert Altman and adapted from Richard Hooker's novel, MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors, the film broke new ground with its darkly comedic approach during an era when such black comedies were still uncommon.

The screenplay masterfully portrays the MASH unit's use of sharp wit and outrageous antics to confront the harsh realities of war, blending humor with the underlying gravity of its setting.

Credit goes to the filmmakers for their skillful mix of lighthearted moments amid a somber military backdrop, showcasing an exceptional balance between comedy and seriousness.

Beyond the laughs, "Mash" offers thought-provoking socio-political commentary and is further distinguished by compelling lead performances. The film’s acclaim includes capturing the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and earning five Academy Award nominations, winning one for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Directed by Ted Kotcheff and adapted from Peter Gent's best-selling novel, "North Dallas Forty" stands as a prominent entry in mainstream sports cinema.

Set amidst the glitz and turmoil of late 1970s American professional football, this film employs sharp satire to explore the sport's underlying culture.

The story follows a seasoned wide receiver whose reluctance to embrace the superficial 'team family' ethos provokes hostility from his strict coaches.

Critics widely praised the film for remaining faithful to its literary source, offering audiences an authentic and gritty portrayal that delivers both biting commentary and entertainment.

Starring Hollywood icon Tom Cruise, "Jerry Maguire" seamlessly weaves the thrills of the sports world with a deeply compelling romantic comedy-drama. Directed, written, and produced by Cameron Crowe, the film captivates with its emotional depth and vibrant storytelling.

The story follows Jerry Maguire, a top sports agent whose life is turned upside down after he's fired from his agency. Driven by a renewed sense of purpose, Jerry sets out on a journey of self-discovery and fights to reclaim his career and integrity.

Amidst his struggles, Jerry's sole remaining client, Rod Tidwell—a gifted but demanding football star—tests his resolve and commitment. Their partnership, built on mutual trust, becomes central to both their professional and personal growth.

More than a football tale, "Jerry Maguire" explores loyalty, ambition, and the pressures of the sports industry. The film won Tom Cruise a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and is cherished for its unforgettable, iconic moments and dialogue.

"Go Tigers!" is a gripping feature-length documentary that delves into the Massillon Washington High School football team and its profound influence on the town of Massillon, Ohio.

The film skillfully depicts how players navigate the pressures of both personal responsibilities and the relentless demands of their athletic pursuits. Through intimate stories, viewers gain a deeper understanding of the historical legacy of Tiger football and the community’s enduring devotion to their team.

Directed and written by Kenneth Carlson, "Go Tigers!" stands out as an essential watch for American football enthusiasts and anyone moved by the dynamic spirit of local sports communities.

Directed by Warren Beatty and Buck Henry, Heaven Can Wait follows the journey of Joe, a dedicated quarterback whose life takes an unexpected turn after a tragic accident.

The story intensifies when an overly eager angel wrongly takes Joe's soul before his actual time, setting the stage for a unique twist of fate.

The screenplay unravels as Joe returns to life in the body of a recently deceased millionaire, navigating a new world while seeking to correct the celestial error.

This film stands out for its ambitious narrative, masterfully executed with a blend of classic charm and contemporary wit.

Blending elements of fantasy, comedy, and romance, Heaven Can Wait is an upbeat screwball comedy that earned nine Academy Award nominations, showcasing its enduring appeal and critical acclaim.

"Rudy," directed by David Anspaugh, delivers an inspirational biographical sports drama that captures the true story of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger.

The film follows Rudy’s relentless pursuit of his lifelong dream to play for the Notre Dame football team, despite constant reminders that he lacks the size and ability. His determination in the face of overwhelming odds brings a message of perseverance and hope.

Released in 1993, "Rudy" is celebrated as a classic among American football films, praised for its authenticity and heartfelt storytelling. The movie was filmed on the historic Notre Dame campus, thanks to generous cooperation from the university.

Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival, "Rudy" also earned recognition as the 54th most inspiring film of all time by the American Film Institute, further cementing its legacy in sports cinema.

"Friday Night Lights," directed by Peter Berg, is a riveting sports drama that delves deep into the emotional and physical hurdles faced by high school football coaches in Texas.

The story follows Coach Gary Gaines as he leads the Permian High School Panthers through a season fraught with tremendous pressure, skyrocketing expectations, and the hopes of an entire town resting on their shoulders.

Based on H.G. Bissinger’s celebrated book, "Friday Night Lights: A Town, a Team, and a Dream," the film skillfully portrays the powerful ways in which football can unite a community in pursuit of a shared dream.

Praised for its authenticity and gripping performances, the movie earned the Best Sports Movie ESPY Award and notably introduced audiences to Amber Heard in her film debut.

Featuring Corey Haim, Kerri Green, Charlie Sheen, and Courtney Thorne-Smith in leading roles, Lucas is best described as a heartfelt romantic comedy rather than a typical football movie.

The film follows a shy, nerdy fourteen-year-old boy who faces heartbreak when his two closest friends begin dating each other. In a bid to win over his crush, he decides to join the high school football team, adding another layer to his coming-of-age journey.

Written and directed by David Seltzer, Lucas insightfully explores the complexities of teenage life and the emotional challenges that come with young love. The film still resonates with audiences today, thanks to strong performances from its talented cast.

"Invincible" is a sports drama directed by Ericson Core, featuring standout performances from Mark Wahlberg, Greg Kinnear, Elizabeth Banks, and Michael Rispoli.

The film follows Vince, a struggling 30-year-old who is devastated when his wife unexpectedly files for divorce, leaving him at his lowest point.

Determined to change his life, Vince takes a chance and tries out for the Philadelphia Eagles, leading to a remarkable transformation as he chases his dream in professional football.

At its core, "Invincible" tells a straightforward yet uplifting story. It artfully combines the excitement of sports with a powerful message of resilience, earning widespread praise and positive reviews from audiences upon its release.

Directed by Reginald Hudlin, Safety is a biographical sports drama inspired by the true story of football player Ray McElrathbey.

The film follows Ray as he represents the Clemson University football team, all while coping with the challenges and upheaval affecting his family.

Safety is a compelling, fact-based narrative that received positive reviews from critics. The movie thoughtfully blends family drama with the excitement of football, offering mature themes that deliver a strong emotional impact for viewers.

"American Underdog" stars Zachary Levi and Anna Paquin in a moving biographical sports drama that tells the real-life story of NFL quarterback Kurt Warner. The film traces Warner's incredible journey from working in a supermarket to rising as an unlikely football star.

Directed by Andrew and Jon Erwin, this uplifting underdog tale shines a spotlight on unwavering perseverance, resilient character, and the importance of staying true to one's heart through adversity.

Zachary Levi, famed for his performance in "Shazam!", brings authenticity and conviction to the role of Warner. Anna Paquin complements his portrayal with a heartfelt performance that enriches the emotional depth of the film's narrative.

Directed by Boaz Yakin, "Remember the Titans" is a celebrated biographical sports drama that powerfully recounts the real-life journey of coach Herman Boone, memorably portrayed by Denzel Washington.

The film centers on Coach Boone as he leads a Virginia high school football team through the turbulent period of racial integration in the early 1970s, facing both resistance and opportunity.

As the school's football program integrates for the first time, the team finds itself under the glare of community scrutiny, navigating unprecedented social and athletic challenges.

Praised as one of the finest football films ever created, "Remember the Titans" seamlessly blends rousing sports moments with impactful social commentary, exploring the themes of racial tension and the strength found in teamwork.

Driven by an outstanding cast—most notably Washington—the movie not only delivers gripping football action but also powerfully examines stereotypes and celebrates the unifying power of sports.

For viewers interested in how sports have mirrored social change, this film offers a compelling portrayal of perseverance, unity, and hope in the face of adversity during a pivotal chapter in American history.

In The Blind Side, Sandra Bullock shines in an Academy Award-winning performance, leading this acclaimed biographical sports drama directed and written by John Lee Hancock.

Based on Michael Lewis's bestselling book, the film narrates the inspiring journey of Michael Oher, a homeless African-American teenager who finds hope and support with a caring Caucasian family.

This family not only helps Michael overcome academic struggles but also empowers him to achieve greatness on the football field, fostering his talents and confidence.

Bullock's genuine and heartfelt portrayal resonated with audiences, earning critical praise and making a lasting emotional impact.

The Blind Side captivates by blending poignant storytelling with memorable moments, creating an emotional journey that lingers long after the credits roll.

While dramatized for the big screen, the film excels as a character-driven drama, thoughtfully exploring authentic relationships through sincere performances and nuanced writing.

The realistic, nuanced characters enhance the story's emotional depth, making it a compelling watch for both sports fans and those who appreciate heartfelt dramas.

Directed by Jon and Andrew Erwin, collectively known as the Erwin Brothers, "Woodlawn" received a positive reception upon its release and struck a chord with many moviegoers.

Set in the early 1970s, the film explores the escalating racial tensions of the era, blending a powerful story of social change with an inspirational football narrative.

The storyline follows Tony Nathan, a gifted Black high school football player, and his teammates as they confront adversity and hostility, inspired by the guidance of a determined outsider.

Based on the true events of the 1973 Woodlawn High School football team, this heartfelt film is as much a story of faith and unity as it is about the sport itself.

Set in the 1950s, "School Ties," directed by Robert Mandel, follows the journey of a talented quarterback who earns a coveted scholarship to a prestigious preparatory school.

To fit in and avoid prejudice, he conceals his Jewish heritage, fearing rejection from his peers in an environment rife with intolerance.

While primarily a teen drama with football as its backdrop, the film stands out for its powerful message against bigotry and discrimination.

This compelling drama boasts a standout ensemble cast, featuring Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Chris O'Donnell, Randall Batinkoff, Andrew Lowery, Cole Hauser, Ben Affleck, and Anthony Rapp in pivotal roles.

"Concussion," directed by Peter Landesman, tells the powerful true story of Dr. Bennet Omalu, a pathologist whose groundbreaking discoveries changed American football. Omalu courageously investigates the long-term effects of repeated head trauma, exposing the prevalence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) among NFL players.

Set against the backdrop of football's worldwide popularity and massive economic influence, the film illustrates how health concerns are often ignored for the sake of profit. Starring Will Smith, this riveting drama highlights the urgent importance of prioritizing player safety and challenging institutional denial.

"Greater" (2016), directed by David L. Hunt, chronicles the remarkable true story of Brandon Burlsworth, regarded as the greatest walk-on player in college football history.

With Christopher Severio portraying Burlsworth, the film delves into how perseverance and steadfast faith can help one overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Severio brings a compelling authenticity to the role, powerfully capturing the determination and integrity that defined Brandon’s character.

This inspiring story is particularly meaningful for young viewers, offering valuable life lessons in commitment and resilience. Don’t miss the film’s profound spiritual undertones that enrich the narrative.

Directed by Oliver Stone, this sports drama film has been headlined by actors such as Al Pacino, Cameron Diaz, Dennis Quaid, and Jamie Foxx.

It depicts the fictional journey of a professional American football squad and its energetic coach. The story showcases how a veteran football coach deals not only with his team's losses and internal conflicts but also with the team's unyielding owner.

Loosely inspired by NFL defensive end Pat Toomay's novel of the same name, Any Given Sunday tries to take an in-depth look at the world of professional football from every possible angle. Also, one can catch several real-world football players in a cameo role in this one.

This biographical sports drama motion picture, which has been helmed by McG, casts a light on the aftermath of the 1970 plane crash that killed 75 people.

Among those who passed were the players and coaches of the Marshall University Thundering Herd football team. However, the story depicts that in due time, the team gets a new coach who tries his very best to bring the unit together; all while dealing with the loss of the dear departed.

Matthew McConaughey plays the main lead and delivers the best performance in the film. We Are Marshall keeps its emotions close to the surface and never really lets the audience lose interest in its moving screenplay.

The quest for popularity during those formative college years is something many people can relate to. This universal desire forms the heart of Harold Lamb's journey in "The Freshman" (1925), making his story both resonant and timeless.

Harold Lamb, portrayed by Harold Lloyd, is a determined young man striving to make a name for himself on campus. His quest takes a new turn when he decides to join the football team, setting off a chain of comedic and heartfelt events as he relentlessly pursues fame.

Alongside Lloyd, the film features memorable performances from Jobyna Ralston, Brooks Benedict, and James Anderson. "The Freshman" stands out as a silent comedy classic and was fittingly selected for preservation by the Library of Congress in the United States National Film Registry.

Directed by Fred C. Newmeyer and Sam Taylor, this film has secured its place as one of the most iconic entries in Harold Lloyd’s illustrious career. Its enduring humor and charm continue to captivate audiences nearly a century later.

With its cleverly crafted incidents and perfectly timed comedic moments, "The Freshman" feels as fresh today as ever. It’s a testament to how influential its humor has been, setting a standard that modern Hollywood comedies still strive to emulate.

The Last Boy Scout is an unabashed, action-packed thriller that merges the tropes of a trademark crime caper with that of a sports-themed mainstream feature.

It tells the story of a detective who is compelled to take the job of a bodyguard. Soon after, he is seen getting embroiled in a disastrous setting of murder and corruption.

The catch here is that all of it is linked to the seemingly clean world of American football. Banking on its witty one-liners and hilarious dialogue delivery of its leading performers, The Last Boy Scout helped Bruce Willis regain his star status.

Even though the film wasn't exactly a box office smash, it did become popular in the video rental market.

Starring Dwayne Johnson, Xzibit, L. Scott Caldwell, and Kevin Dunn in prominent roles, Gridiron Gang is partially based on the true story of the Kilpatrick Mustangs during the 1990 season.

The story outlines the entertaining journey of Sean Porter, who works at a juvenile detention center where the children seem to suffer from underconfidence and low self-esteem.

In order to boost their morale and alter their lifestyle, he decides to mold them into a formidable football team. But, will he succeed?

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has been perfectly cast in the film which serves as a decent entertainer for the diehard fans of the sport.

Written and directed by Don Handfield, Touchback stars Brian Presley, Melanie Lynskey, and Kurt Russell in crucial roles. It outlines the journey of a former football star, Scott Murphy, who is fortunate enough to be presented with an extraordinary opportunity to relive his high school days.

While doing so, he can alter his fate by avoiding the permanent knee injury that ended up changing his life fifteen years ago.

Touchback should be seen because it does its best to convey to take satisfaction in whatever it is that one has within their life.

Not only does it talk about finding a purpose in existing but it also emphasizes the importance of "trusting the process" as one evolves in life.

Even though there are corny moments and obvious minor flaws in the project, the movie can still be seen for the implicit message that it carries.

This sleeper hit about a small-town Texas high school squad hit the screens in the late 1990s, and has gone on to develop a cult following since.

The story spotlights the journey of a college football team after its star quarterback suffers an injury. Soon after the mishap, the team is asked to come together under the leadership of a second-string quarterback whose approach to the game is both irrelevant and questionable.

Helmed for the screen by Brian Robbins, this coming-of-age sports comedy-drama film lacks the intensity and the required "surprise factor" of being a bonafide football flick. However, it does feature moments that manage to hold the attention of its viewers.

Helmed for the screen by Lloyd Bacon, this motion picture narrates the story of the iconic Notre Dame football player and coach, Knute Rockne.

Starring Pat O'Brien, Gale Page, and Ronald Reagan in the lead, the feature film illustrates how Rockne not only developed a game-changing play such as the forward pass but also nurtured the talents of several athletes.

Shot on location at the university, Knute Rockne, All American features a surprising performance by the 40th President of the United States of America, Mr. Ronald Reagan.

Directed by Dylan Baker, this sports drama feature film tells the story of a dependable high school football star, who is suddenly stricken with irreversible total blindness.

Now, he is left with only two options: Live a safe and settled life at home being handicapped, or return to the field for a sport that gives him a reason to live.

Inspired by the true story of a Kentucky teen named Travis Freeman, 23 Blast is a heart-warming tale of grit and self-belief that should be seen by those struggling to deal with the problems life throws at them.

That being said, the motion picture has been executed in a rather amateurish and predictable manner. It debuted at the Heartland Film Festival in 2013 and received an audience choice award for Narrative Feature.

Headlined by the charming Adam Sandler, this Peter Segal-helmed feature film tracks the journey of Paul; a washed-up but famous football player who lands up in jail.

There, he meets the warden Rudolph, who happens to be a die-hard football fan. Sooner than later, the latter asks Paul put a team of prisoners together to challenge the prison guards for a game of football.

A remake of 1974's The Longest Yard, this motion picture received mixed reviews upon its theatrical release but performed well at the box office.

While it does lack the edginess of the original, it tries to make up for it by banking on its numerous witty sequences.

Inspired by the 1996 Sports Illustrated article "Someone to Lean On" by Gary Smith, this Michael Tollin-helmed project is based on the true story of T. L. Hanna High School football coach Harold Jones and a young man with an intellectual disability.

The story casts a light on how after having met a 23-year-old boy Robert 'Radio' Kennedy, football coach Jones decides to take him under his wing with the purpose of transforming him into a gentleman.

Filmed primarily in Walterboro, South Carolina, Radio thrives on the leading performances of Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ed Harris.

Helmed for the screen by Andy Fickman, The Game Plan is for those who weren't exactly sure if Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson ever had a family-friendly phase.

The film traces the sweet journey of an egotistical bachelor who revamps into a doting father after having discovered that he has a loving eight-year-old daughter.

Even though there's nothing unique or surprising about it, this Dwayne Johnson-led family comedy has its heart in the right place and is, in fact, full of charm.

It is a cozy family entertainer that parents the world over would love to relish with their kids over a bucket of popcorn.

If you're looking forward to seeing a supremely entertaining sports comedy, you have to keep The Replacements as one of your top choices.

Not only does it star the amazing Keanu Reeves but it also features Gene Hackman and Jon Favreau in prominent roles.

The film tells the amusing story of a professional football team that needs replacement players to continue playing during a strike.

However, the kind of people who end up coming for the trials is what gives the viewers of this Howard Deutch directorial venture several comedic moments to savor.

There is a tacit bond between fans and their favorite players that sometimes goes beyond what transpires on the field. This is the story of one such fan and his favorite team.

A hard-core New York Giants supporter gets the shock of his life when he is beaten up by his favorite player.

Needless to say, he struggles to deal with the consequences of the incident no matter how hard he tries.

Written and directed diligently by Robert D. Siegel, this black comedy motion picture chronicles the often dark and lonesome world of a sports fanatic.

Big Fan was able to charm its viewers and, therefore, opened to positive reviews at the Sundance Film Festival in 2009. It is a must-see for everyone who has been a fan of someone in their respective lives.

Based on the book Courage Beyond the Game: The Freddie Steinmark Story by Jim Dent, this biographical drama sports feature tracks the journey of Freddie Steinmark, who gets a scholarship to play football at an esteemed college.

However, just as he dares to scale new heights of success, he ends up suffering a cumbersome injury. Needless to say, the astounding diagnosis compels him to face the biggest challenge of his life.

Even though it has a moving real-life story to tell, this Angelo Pizzo directorial venture gets a bit too melodramatic towards the climax.

The Waterboy is a sports comedy mainstream feature film that tells the exciting story of a college football team that discovers that their waterboy, Bobby Boucher, has a unique tackling ability.

Needless to say, he ends up being a part of the squad before he knows it. Now, this hugely successful Frank Coraci-helmed project is one of the only ones on our list which grows solely on its comedy.

However, it does comprise some truly entertaining football sequences to not disappoint the fans of the sport. So, all you have to do is sit back and allow this Adam Sandler vehicle to stand on its own.

Directed by Gary Fleder, "The Express" is a moving sports drama that brings to life the inspiring true story of Ernie Davis, the first African American to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy while playing for Syracuse University.

Set against the backdrop of the civil rights era, the film dives deep into the challenges of racism and discrimination, exploring the powerful intersection between sports and social change during a pivotal time in American history.

The movie marks the acting debut of Chadwick Boseman, alongside captivating performances from Dennis Quaid, Rob Brown, Omar Benson Miller, Clancy Brown, and Charles S. Dutton. "The Express" delivers an emotional and uplifting experience that resonates even with those new to football.

This Thomas Carter-helmed feature film stars Jim Caviezel, Michael Chiklis, Alexander Ludwig, and Laura Dern in pivotal roles. It showcases how Bob Ladouceur's personal problems result in his career taking a hit.

Consequently, the issues start reflecting on his game as his team loses a match after a record winning streak of 151 games.

While the movie is certainly about football and incorporates a ton of football footage, it is not entirely based on the sport.

When the Game Stands Tall is a family-friendly mainstream feature that makes for a decent watch.

Directed by Michael Curtiz and starring Burt Lancaster, Charles Bickford, and Phyllis Thaxter in crucial roles, this biographical sports drama film strives to tell the story of Jim Thorpe; the great Native American athlete who won medals at the 1912 Olympics.

However, the film also shows how, besides battling his rivals on the field, the titular character has to fight prejudice in his pursuit of sports stardom.

The flick not only features some archival footage of both the 1912 and 1932 Summer Olympics but it also includes long shots of the real Jim Thorpe in its screenplay.

Jim Thorpe: All-American is certainly for the ardent fans of football who'd like to know more about Thorpe's athletic rise and fall.

This Alex Kendrick-helmed project is a Christian drama sports film that tells the story of coach Grant Taylor, who wants nothing more than to inspire his disheartened football squad to get back to their winning ways.

In the meantime, he has to face the probability of losing his job while facing a myriad of other unexpected setbacks.

Filmed in Albany, Georgia, Facing the Giants takes the road less taken and attempts to tell an underdog story about American football from a very Christian perspective.

While most of the critics praised the motion picture for its heart-warming drama and feel-good storyline, a few others were not too happy with it being an overly religious story of faith.

Starring Alan Alda in the lead, this sports comedy feature is based on George Plimpton's non-fiction book of the same name.

It aims to illustrate how sportswriter George Plimpton ends up posing as a rookie quarterback for the Detroit Lions for a much-awaited "Sports Illustrated" piece.

This fun movie features cameos from real-life players from that period and has a ton of comedic sequences to boot.

Aside from its believable leading performances, the film also showcases what it must feel like being a quarterback at an NFL training camp; a place where not a lot of us would like to be, but definitely one that we'd like to read about and see.

This sports drama film hit the screens internationally in 1988. It has been directed by Taylor Hackford and is based on longtime Sports Illustrated contributor Frank Deford's novel of the same name.

The story follows a Louisiana football legend who seems to be struggling to deal with the many intricacies of life after his college career is over.

The film covers 25 years in the life of a college football hero. It stars Dennis Quaid, Jessica Lange, Timothy Hutton, and John Goodman in prominent roles.

This underrated, lesser-known motion picture thrives on its decent performances and is a worth-seeing tale about triumph and tragedy.

Helmed for the screen by Duwayne Dunham, this family sports comedy flick tells the story of two brothers living in a small Ohio town.

The screenplay showcases how after Danny's daughter is excluded from his brother Kevin's football team, Danny ends up forming his own squad to stand up against his brother.

His only aim? To prove to him that he can, indeed, learn a lot from his younger sibling.

Little Giants is a goldmine of a sports movie for anyone who has ever felt that they have been left behind or considered any less by their peers.

The makers have to be given due credit for ensuring that the film doesn't just end up being a routine family entertainer, and that it has enough meat to make sense to anyone who has ever felt neglected.