21 Christian football movies you’ll love
Check our list of faith-based movies and find your next Christian American football movie to watch!
Christian football movies craft the perfect blend of heart-pounding action with uplifting messages of faith, redemption, and perseverance. These 21 films showcase how the game of football intersects with spiritual journeys, inspiring viewers to tackle life's challenges with God's guidance. From underdog triumphs to real-life testimonies, our list highlights stories that connect America’s most popular sport with faith. If you’re looking for your next Christian American football movie to watch, this list is for you!
Whether you're a fan of football or simply seeking wholesome entertainment, these Christian football movies offer timeless lessons on unity, forgiveness, and divine purpose. Dive into our curated selection and discover a recommended Christian American football movie to rent, purchase, or stream tonight, complete with summaries, ratings, and viewing options, to find your next watch.
1. The Blind Side
Rating: PG-13 (2009)
Story: Homeless teen Michael Oher is adopted by devout Christian family the Tuohys, who nurture his football talent and faith amid challenges. As Michael integrates into their affluent world, he faces academic struggles and racial prejudices but finds stability through their support. The film highlights his transformation into a college football star, emphasizing themes of grace and opportunity. Based on the true story of Michael Oher, who rose from poverty in Memphis to become an NFL offensive tackle after the Tuohys' intervention.
Why Watch: Uplifting story of redemption, family bonds, and God's provision through compassion.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game” by Michael Lewis.
2. Remember the Titans
Rating: PG (2000)
Story: Newly integrated high school football team battles racism under coach Herman Boone, drawing on unity and subtle faith in community. Tensions flare as Black and white players clash during training camp, but shared hardships forge unbreakable bonds. Boone's tough leadership and the team's undefeated season inspire the divided town of Alexandria, Virginia. Based on the true 1971 T.C. Williams High School Titans, who won the state championship amid school desegregation.
Why Watch: Inspires overcoming division through perseverance and moral leadership rooted in values.
Where to Watch: Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Prime, DVD
Based on a book: No.
3. Rudy
Rating: PG (1993)
Story: Undersized Daniel Ruettiger pursues dream of playing Notre Dame football, fueled by determination and family faith. Despite rejections, dyslexia, and physical limitations, Rudy walks on to the team after years of persistence. His relentless spirit culminates in a legendary moment on the field. Based on the real Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, who sacked the quarterback in his only college play during Notre Dame's final 1975 game.
Why Watch: Testament to grit, prayer, and divine purpose in pursuing impossible goals.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Peacock, DVD
Based on a book: No.
4. American Underdog
Rating: PG (2021)
Story: Kurt Warner rises from stockboy to NFL MVP with wife Brenda's unwavering Christian faith guiding their journey. After undrafted stints in the Arena League and grocery stocking, Warner seizes a Rams opportunity amid personal hardships. Their blended family endures setbacks, but prayer sustains them through triumphs. Based on Kurt Warner's real path from University of Northern Iowa backup to Super Bowl champion and two-time NFL MVP.
Why Watch: Celebrates trust in God, humility, and family amid underdog triumphs.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “All Things Possible: My Story of Faith, Football and the First Miracle Season” by Kurt Warner.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “American Underdog Discussion Guide” by Kingdom Story Company.
5. When the Game Stands Tall
Rating: PG (2014)
Story: De La Salle coach Bob Ladouceur leads team through loss streak, emphasizing faith, brotherhood, and servant leadership. After a 151-game win streak ends, personal tragedies test the Spartans' resolve. Ladouceur's "Commitment to Excellence" philosophy rebuilds the team spiritually and competitively. Based on the real De La Salle High School Spartans' record-breaking streak from 1992-2003 under coach Ladouceur.
Why Watch: Shows victory beyond wins, through spiritual growth and resilience.
Where to Watch: Peacock, Tubi, Amazon Video
Based on a book: Yes, “When the Game Stands Tall: The Story of the De La Salle Spartans and Football's Longest Winning Streak” by Neil Hayes.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “When the Game Stands Tall Discussion Guide” by Affirm Films.
6. The Game Plan
Rating: PG (2007)
Story: Selfish NFL quarterback Joe Kingman discovers daughter, learning family values and subtle faith lessons. Peyton's arrival upends Joe's bachelor life, forcing him to balance games and parenting. Through ballet recitals and team pressures, he grows into a devoted father. As rehearsals clash with playoffs, Joe's choices reveal priorities beyond the field.
Why Watch: Heartwarming shift to prioritizing love and humility over fame.
Where to Watch: Disney+, Hulu, Amazon Video,
Based on a book: No.
7. The Longshots
Rating: PG (2008)
Story: Unemployed uncle coaches niece Jasmine, first female Pop Warner QB, rebuilding town through perseverance and moral growth. In struggling Harvey, Illinois, Jasmine defies gender norms on the field. Community rallies as the team advances, healing economic woes. Based on Jasmine Plummer's real 2003 season as the first girl to play QB in Pop Warner history, leading her team to semifinals.
Why Watch: Empowers breaking barriers with community support and ethical choices.
Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Tubi, DVD
Based on a book: No.
8. Facing the Giants
Rating: PG (2006)
Story: Struggling coach Grant Taylor recommits to God, leading underdog team to victory via faith over fear. Facing job loss and infertility, Grant challenges players to play for divine glory. A revival sweeps the school, turning defeats into miracles. Miraculous plays and personal healings affirm God's faithfulness.
Why Watch: Bold reminder to glorify God in success or failure.
Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Prime Video, DVD
Based on a book: No.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “Facing the Giants Bible Study - Member Book” by Stephen Kendrick et al.
9. Woodlawn
Rating: PG (2015)
Story: 1970s desegregated team experiences revival, uniting through Christian conversion amid racial tensions. Coach Tandy Gerelds invites evangelist to address unrest, sparking mass salvations. Tony Nathan emerges as star, bridging divides on and off field. Based on Woodlawn High School's 1973-74 season in Birmingham, Alabama, where a Jesus Movement revival unified the integrated team to a championship.
Why Watch: Powerful depiction of faith healing division and inspiring purpose.
Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Netflix, Amazon video, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “Woodlawn: One Hope. One Dream. One Way.” by Todd Gerelds.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “One: The Woodlawn Study Journal” by Dave Stone and Dr. Tony Evans.
10. Greater
Rating: PG (2016)
Story: Walk-on Brandon Burlsworth transforms Arkansas Razorbacks career through relentless faith and work ethic. Overweight and overlooked, Brandon earns a spot via discipline and Bible study. His success inspires teammates, but tragedy strikes post-draft. Based on Brandon Burlsworth's real life as an Arkansas walk-on who became All-SEC before dying in a car crash in 1999.
Why Watch: Motivates seeing God's plan in overlooked lives.
Where to Watch: Netflix, Prime Video, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “Eyes of a Champion: The Brandon Burlsworth Story” by Jeff Kinley.
11. Run the Race
Rating: PG (2018)
Story: Brothers cope with mother's death via football, finding healing through Christian mentorship. Star quarterback Zach rebels against absent father, straining sibling bond. Coach Truett offers guidance, leading to forgiveness and purpose. As playoffs loom, faith mends their fractured family.
Why Watch: Explores forgiveness, brotherhood, and eternal hope.
Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Amazon Video, DVD.
Based on a book: No.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “Run the Race Bible Study Book” by Trey Brunson.
12. 23 Blast
Rating: PG (2014)
Story: Blind teen Travis Freeman returns to football, sustained by unshakeable faith and friends. A rare infection robs his sight, but determination and family prayer propel him back. Teammates adapt plays, showcasing loyalty amid adversity. Based on Travis Freeman's real battle with corneal infection, returning as Corbin High's quarterback while blind.
Why Watch: Proves disabilities can't dim God's calling.
Where to Watch: Angel Studios, Netflix, Amazon Video, DVD
Based on a book: No.
13. The 5th Quarter
Rating: PG-13 (2010)
Story: After brother Luke's death, Jon Abbate leads Wake Forest team in tribute, leaning on family faith. Devastated by a drunk-driving crash, Jon channels grief into gridiron excellence. The Demon Deacons rally, honoring Luke's jersey in every game. Based on the real 2006 tragedy of 15-year-old Luke Abbate, inspiring Jon's All-ACC season and ACC championship.
Why Watch: Honors legacy through grief, unity, and spiritual strength.
Where to Watch: Prime Video, Tubi, DVD
Based on a book: No.
14. Hometown Legend
Rating: PG (2002)
Story: Drifter joins struggling team under tough coach, discovering redemption and prayer's power. In dying Athens, Alabama, teen Brian reaches potential despite temptations. Rivalries test faith as the school faces closure. Community unites for one last championship push.
Why Watch: Highlights transformation via discipline and divine intervention.
Where to Watch: Amazon Video, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “Hometown Legend” by Jerry B. Jenkins.
15. Season of a Lifetime
Rating: Not Rated (2011)
Story: ALS-afflicted coach Jeremy Williams inspires final season with faith-focused leadership. Diagnosed terminally, he motivates the Patriots toward perfection. Town rallies around his unyielding spirit despite declining health. Based on Jeremy Williams' real 2006 season coaching Evans High School to 13-0 record while battling ALS.
Why Watch: Teaches living fully for God despite terminal illness.
Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Tubi, DVD
Based on a book: No, but there is a Bible Study, “Season of a Lifetime Study Guide” by Vision Video.
16. Catching Faith
Rating: PG (2015)
Story: Perfect family unravels; son quits football, finding true purpose in Christ. Cheerleader Alexa grapples with popularity after father's death. Beau rejects stardom for ministry, challenging parental expectations. Siblings navigate loss, prioritizing eternal values over achievements.
Why Watch: Challenges worldly success for eternal priorities.
Where to Watch: Pure Flix, Prime Video.
Based on a book: No.
Official Bible Study: Yes, “The Elijah Project Teaching Guides” by Andrea M. Polnaszek.
17. Reggie's Prayer
Rating: PG-13 (1996)
Story: Retired Reggie Knox coaches troubled teen, combating crime with Christian principles. Haunted by brother's death, Knox mentors at-risk youth in Portland. Football becomes tool for salvation amid gang threats. One boy's turnaround echoes divine redemption.
Why Watch: Demonstrates mentoring's impact through bold faith.
Where to Watch: Prime Video, Tubi.
Based on a book: No.
18. Game Time: Tackling the Past
Rating: Not Rated (2011)
Story: Pro player returns home post-father's illness, reconciling past via forgiveness and faith. Jake confronts estranged family secrets derailing his career. Coaching local team heals old wounds with grace. Renewed bonds restore his gridiron path.
Why Watch: Stresses healing family wounds through grace.
Where to Watch: Hallmark Channel, DVD.
Based on a book: No.
19. Tim Tebow: On a Mission
Rating: Not Rated (2012)
Story: Documentary on Tebow's rise, blending football success with evangelistic faith. From Heisman wins to NFL trials, Tebow shares mission-driven life. Off-field efforts combat child exploitation globally. Based on Tim Tebow's real career and faith journey, from Florida Gators star to philanthropist.
Why Watch: Exemplifies public testimony and mission-driven life.
Where to Watch: Prime Video, Apple TV, DVD.
Based on a book: No.
20. The Minister of Defense
Rating: TV-PG (2023)
Story: Doc on Reggie White's NFL dominance intertwined with pastoral calling and faith struggles. From Packers stardom to ministry, White navigates fame's pitfalls. Controversies test convictions amid family life. Based on Reggie White's real legacy as NFL sack leader and ordained minister advocating racial justice.
Why Watch: Explores balancing stardom with Christian conviction.
Where to Watch: ESPN+, Hulu, DVD
Based on a book: Yes, “Reggie White: Minister of Defense” by Reggie White and Terry Hill.
21. The King's Heart
Rating: Not Rated (2015)
Story: Short: Family faces father's death before son's championship, sustained by legacy faith. Middle son Joey channels grief into football drive. Siblings draw strength from dad's eternal lessons. Based on a real family's ordeal losing their father days before the son's state title game.
Why Watch: Short burst of resilience and heavenly perspective.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, DVD
Based on a book: No.