“Netflix Unleashes ‘The Underdog’: Epic New Documentary Celebrates Joe Washington’s Dazzling Legacy and Championship Glory at Oklahoma
Joe Washington’s story has long been woven into the fabric of Oklahoma football lore, but now, Netflix is set to bring that legacy to the world in a way it never has been told before. With the official announcement of its upcoming documentary, The Underdog, the streaming giant is promising an emotional, exhilarating, and inspiring deep dive into the life of one of college football’s most dynamic and beloved figures. Washington, known for his blazing speed, unmatched agility, and flair that lit up stadiums in the 1970s, will be the focus of a cinematic celebration not just of football brilliance but of character, resilience, and impact that stretches far beyond the gridiron. For fans of the sport, Oklahoma diehards, and anyone drawn to stories of perseverance and triumph, The Underdog is shaping up to be a can’t-miss moment in sports storytelling.
At the heart of the film is the legacy Joe Washington built at the University of Oklahoma, where his contributions helped redefine what it meant to be a running back and what excellence looked like in college football. During his time in Norman, Washington powered the Sooners to a staggering 43-2-1 record, culminating in back-to-back national championships in 1974 and 1975 under legendary coach Barry Switzer. But beyond the stats and titles, it was the way Washington played that left such a deep imprint. He wasn’t the biggest guy on the field—in fact, he was often the smallest—but he was electrifying, elusive, and unrelenting. He had a unique ability to disappear in a crowd and reappear 20 yards downfield. With his signature silver shoes glinting under stadium lights, Washington turned every carry into a potential highlight, dazzling defenders and fans alike.
The documentary, produced with intimate access to Washington and his family, promises to go deeper than his accolades. It paints a rich portrait of a kid from Port Arthur, Texas, who overcame doubt, racial barriers, and physical limitations to become a household name in college football. Interviews with former teammates, coaches, journalists, and modern-day players who idolized him will offer a sweeping and personal view of a man who inspired generations. Washington’s charisma, humility, and unwavering drive come through not only in his on-field brilliance but in the way he carried himself as a leader, a teammate, and eventually as a trailblazer in the NFL and beyond.
Joe Washington’s impact wasn’t confined to Saturdays in the fall. He was drafted in the first round of the 1976 NFL Draft and went on to enjoy a successful pro career, including Pro Bowl honors and memorable moments like his five-touchdown game with the Baltimore Colts. Yet, as The Underdog will reveal, his influence extended into his post-playing days, where he remained active in mentoring young athletes, advocating for education, and supporting charitable causes. He also became one of the first Black executives in the NFL front office when he served as the Director of Football Operations for the Washington Football Team. This evolution from standout athlete to respected leader is a central thread in the film, reinforcing the documentary’s message that greatness isn’t just about what you achieve—it’s about what you give back.
One of the most compelling aspects of The Underdog is its exploration of Washington’s role in breaking barriers at a time when Black athletes were still fighting for equal recognition and opportunity. The film doesn’t shy away from the challenges Washington faced—from the subtle racism of recruitment to the pressure of being a role model in a divided society. Yet it also captures how he handled those moments with grace and strength, becoming a beacon of hope and pride not just for Black athletes, but for all underdogs dreaming of defying the odds. The documentary uses archival footage, personal reflections, and rare behind-the-scenes insights to bring these themes to life, making it more than just a sports film—it’s a human story of overcoming adversity and rising to meet the moment.
What also sets this film apart is its creative approach. Director Chris Merrill, known for his acclaimed sports storytelling in past Netflix originals, brings a cinematic touch that blends energy with introspection. Merrill and his team employ dynamic visuals, slow-motion breakdowns of famous plays, and stylized reenactments to give life to Washington’s most iconic moments. Whether it’s his game-saving runs against Texas or his unforgettable performance in the Orange Bowl, these sequences are designed to not only inform but to make viewers feel the emotion, the stakes, and the sheer beauty of Washington’s artistry on the field. This is not just history—it’s an immersive experience.
Equally gripping is the emotional core of the film: Joe Washington’s reflections on legacy, mortality, and gratitude. Now in his 70s, Washington speaks candidly about the journey that brought him here—the sacrifices of his parents, the lessons of failure, the thrill of victory, and the relationships that shaped his life. His humility shines through as he acknowledges that for every spin move or touchdown, there were hours of grind, countless doubters, and a belief in himself that never wavered. In a world where so many documentaries are about spectacle, The Underdog finds its power in honesty and vulnerability. It’s a tribute not just to a career but to a life well lived.
The timing of this release is particularly fitting. With college football undergoing seismic changes—from NIL deals to conference realignments—the sport is in the midst of a transformation. In that context, The Underdog serves as a poignant reminder of what once was: an era when players like Washington played for pride, for school, and for something bigger than themselves. His story becomes both a time capsule and a touchstone—a standard against which new generations can measure themselves, not just by talent, but by heart.
In addition to airing globally on Netflix, the film will also be accompanied by a limited-edition podcast series and companion interviews, deepening the experience for fans who want to explore the themes further. Oklahoma athletics is already planning tribute events and alumni reunions around the premiere, while Nike is rumored to be re-releasing a throwback line of silver cleats in Washington’s honor. Social media buzz has already begun with #TheUnderdog trending following the release of the teaser trailer, which features soaring highlights and a stirring monologue by Washington himself.
As the anticipation builds, it’s clear that The Underdog is more than just another sports documentary—it’s a celebration of spirit, grit, and grace. Joe Washington may have been overlooked at times early in his career, but he never let that define him. He ran through doubt, danced past adversity, and helped build a dynasty at Oklahoma that still resonates decades later. Now, thanks to Netflix, the world gets to witness that journey in full technicolor.
Whether you grew up watching Washington tear through defenses, heard your parents talk about him with reverence, or are just discovering his legacy for the first time, The Underdog offers something universal. It’s a reminder that sometimes the smallest guy on the field can have the biggest impact. That greatness comes in many forms. And that every underdog has a story worth telling. In Joe Washington’s case, that story is finally getting the stage it deserves.
