Netflix, a platform renowned for producing a diverse range of documentaries, has announced the release of one of its most eagerly awaited titles—One for the Ages: The Ed Orgeron Story. This documentary promises to provide an in-depth exploration of the career and personal journey of Ed Orgeron, a name synonymous with LSU (Louisiana State University) football and a coach whose impact on both the program and the state of Louisiana is immeasurable. Orgeron, whose fiery passion, distinctive voice, and incredible leadership led LSU to a national championship in 2019, captured the hearts of fans and cemented his place as a beloved figure in college football history. The documentary takes viewers behind the scenes, offering unprecedented access to the coach’s rise to prominence, his challenges, his triumphs, and his time as the head coach of one of college football’s most storied programs.
Born in LaPlace, Louisiana, Ed Orgeron’s journey to become one of the most iconic coaches in college football is one filled with perseverance, determination, and a deep love for the game. His Louisiana roots were pivotal to his identity, and this documentary seeks to highlight how his upbringing influenced both his coaching style and his connection with LSU fans. As the son of a working-class family, Orgeron’s early life was a reflection of the grit and resilience that would later define his career. His love for football began at a young age, and by the time he reached high school, it was clear that he had the drive and determination to make a significant impact in the sport. However, Orgeron’s road to becoming the head coach at LSU was not straightforward.
Orgeron’s coaching journey began in the mid-1980s when he took a job as a graduate assistant at the University of Arkansas under famed coach Ken Hatfield. His passion for coaching quickly earned him respect, and he began climbing the ranks, eventually landing jobs at schools like Nicholls State, the University of Miami, and USC. His time at USC, where he coached defensive line, became a pivotal moment in his career, as he helped develop standout players like the legendary Troy Polamalu. However, despite his success at USC, Orgeron’s most notable opportunity came when he was hired as the head coach at Ole Miss in 2005. It was here that Orgeron began to make a name for himself, though his tenure was marred by a lack of on-field success, which ultimately led to his firing in 2007.
Despite the setback at Ole Miss, Orgeron’s resilience and determination shone through. He was hired as LSU’s defensive line coach under head coach Les Miles, and it was during this time that he truly made a name for himself as one of the most passionate and dynamic assistants in the game. Under Orgeron’s guidance, LSU’s defensive line became one of the most feared units in the country, helping propel the Tigers to multiple SEC championships and bowl game appearances. It was his ability to inspire and motivate his players, as well as his unwavering commitment to excellence, that endeared him to LSU fans and players alike.
In 2016, after Les Miles was fired as LSU’s head coach, Orgeron was named interim head coach. While many doubted his ability to succeed at the highest level, Orgeron’s leadership and unyielding passion for LSU football won over both players and fans. After a successful stint as interim coach, Orgeron was officially named the permanent head coach in November 2016. What followed was nothing short of remarkable.
In just a few short years, Orgeron transformed the LSU football program, leading the Tigers to the pinnacle of college football with a national championship in 2019. This documentary will delve into that unforgettable season, where LSU, led by Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Joe Burrow, unleashed one of the most dominant offenses in college football history. Under Orgeron’s guidance, LSU shattered records, defeated powerhouse programs, and finally captured the national title that had eluded the program for years. The documentary will offer exclusive access to the locker room, sideline, and personal moments that defined LSU’s remarkable season and the enduring bond between Orgeron and his players.
The national championship victory was not only a career-defining moment for Orgeron but also a culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and overcoming adversity. It solidified Orgeron’s place as one of the greatest coaches in college football history and brought unparalleled joy to LSU fans. The documentary will explore how the Tigers’ triumph resonated beyond the football field, as it served as a symbol of pride for the state of Louisiana and a testament to Orgeron’s resilience and unwavering commitment to his players and his alma mater.
Beyond the X’s and O’s of coaching, One for the Ages also delves into Orgeron’s personal life. Viewers will gain insight into his family, his upbringing, and the challenges he faced throughout his career. Orgeron’s relationship with his players, particularly his connection with Burrow and other key members of the championship-winning team, will be explored in great depth. The documentary will also shed light on Orgeron’s leadership style, which was characterized by a unique combination of intensity, authenticity, and a genuine love for his players. It will show how his passion for LSU and his deep Louisiana roots made him not just a coach, but a father figure and mentor to many of his players.
In addition to its focus on Orgeron’s rise to greatness, the documentary also tackles the inevitable challenges that every coach faces, including criticism, setbacks, and the toll that coaching at such a high level can take on a personal life. The pressure of leading a team like LSU, with its storied history and passionate fan base, was immense, and the documentary will highlight the emotional and mental strain that Orgeron experienced, particularly during the high points and low points of his tenure.
Another major theme of the documentary is Orgeron’s legacy. While his national championship win was a crowning achievement, his tenure at LSU left behind a lasting impact that extended beyond just the players he coached. Under Orgeron’s leadership, LSU’s football program became a beacon of success, bringing unparalleled excitement and pride to Baton Rouge and the state of Louisiana. His leadership helped shape a generation of young athletes, and his legacy will likely be felt for years to come, both on and off the field.
Orgeron’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and determination. It’s a story of a man who overcame adversity to reach the highest levels of success, all while staying true to himself and his roots. The documentary promises to offer a rich and nuanced portrayal of a coach whose legacy will be remembered for generations to come.
The documentary, One for the Ages: The Ed Orgeron Story, will be available for streaming exclusively on Netflix starting in the fall of 2025. For sports fans, college football enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the inspiring journey of one of the game’s most beloved coaches, this documentary will be a must-watch. It is a fitting tribute to a coach whose love for the game and dedication to his players left an indelible mark on LSU football and the sport as a whole. With rare behind-the-scenes footage, personal interviews, and an intimate look at Orgeron’s life both on and off the field, One for the Ages is sure to become a celebrated chapter in the history of sports documentaries.
