Trying to compile a list of the 10 greatest football movies of all time is sure to be daunting. Football movies are, after all, part of the very fabric of America. When you consider how identifiable some football movies are, you begin to realize just how popular the sport has become. That said, this list of the 10 greatest football movies of all time is completely subjective.
10. Varsity Blues (1999)
This high school football drama shows clearly just how insane some football fans, coaches and communities can become in trying to create a winning team. The story is about a coach that is willing to do anything to win, including harming his own players. Jon Voight plays the coach with his regularly scheduled insanity. James Van Der Beek plays a young backup quarterback that challenges his coach and his principles.
9. Brian’s Song (1971)
Many people would place this movie much higher on the list and it would be hard to argue the point. The story is particularly poignant because it is true. This is the story of Brian Piccolo and Gale Sayers of the Chicago Bears and their friendship that is forged through tragedy. While the movie was remade in 2001, the original is far superior.
8. The Water Boy (1998)
While this movie is far from your typical football movie, it is included here simply because it is hilarious. It is also loaded with some pretty awesome football scenes regardless of how ridiculous they may be.
This movie is without a doubt one of the most powerful football movies ever made. What makes it stand out is its unflinching insight into a world of pro sports and the damage that it can leave behind for an athlete. While the movie is over the top at times, it is still a powerful snapshot and a great movie.
5. Invincible (2006)
Invincible is considered by many to be the Rocky of professional football. Mark Wahlberg does an outstanding job of portraying Vincent Papale – a real-life player from the 70s that earned his way onto the powerful Philadelphia Eagles football team. This movie is a great example of overcoming incredible odds to find your dream.
4. We are Marshall (2006)
This is yet another true story football movie that exceeds your expectations. This is the story of the Marshall football team and how they talk to overcome and deal with the death of the majority of their team in a plane crash. Matthew McConaghy does a wonderful job portraying the coach that actually saves the team.
3. North Dallas Forty (1979)
This was the original “Any Given Sunday” type movie and it is one of the better movies of the genre. One can not watch this movie without laughing, and the movie actually is based around the 1970s Dallas Cowboys.
2. Friday Night Lights (2004)
This is an updated version of Varsity Blues with a storyline that will knock your socks off. The movie was so good it spawned a television series that was nearly as good as the movie itself. Billy Bob Thornton plays a great part in this football movie.
1. Remember the Titans (2000)
This movie is my number one for so many different reasons – the story, the backdrop, the actors and the football. The primary driving force for making this movie number one is a brilliant role played by Denzel Washington. That acting role might just be the best job he has ever done and that is saying something. Remember the Titans is the ultimate football movie for most anyone, including non-football fans.
