In a move that has college football fans buzzing, Netflix has officially announced the release of “The Underdog,” a powerful and intimate documentary chronicling the life and legacy of Wisconsin Badgers legend Ron Dayne. The film is set to premiere on the platform this fall, with an exact release date expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Directed by Emmy-nominated filmmaker Ava Ramirez, “The Underdog” dives deep into Dayne’s remarkable journey — from a humble upbringing in New Jersey to becoming the all-time leading rusher in NCAA Division I FBS history, a record he still holds. The film blends never-before-seen archival footage, exclusive interviews, and emotional storytelling to shed light on Dayne’s battles on and off the field, including injuries, media scrutiny, and his transition to the NFL.
“Ron Dayne isn’t just a football player — he’s a symbol of perseverance, humility, and grit,” said Ramirez. “We wanted to tell the story of the man behind the helmet, and what it really took for him to become a college football icon.”
Key Highlights of the Documentary Include:
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Rare behind-the-scenes footage of Dayne’s Heisman Trophy-winning 1999 season
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Emotional interviews with former coaches, teammates, family members, and sports journalists
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Insight into the challenges Dayne faced in the NFL, and how he’s used his platform post-retirement
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A candid look at Dayne’s life after football and his role as a mentor and advocate for student-athletes
The title, “The Underdog,” reflects both Dayne’s under-recruited beginnings and his ongoing battle against stereotypes in the world of college and professional football. Despite his dominance on the field, Dayne was often doubted due to his unconventional build and playing style.
Netflix’s decision to spotlight Ron Dayne follows a growing trend of sports documentaries that humanize legendary athletes, such as “The Last Dance” and “Untold.” Early reviews from select screenings have described “The Underdog” as “inspirational,” “raw,” and “long overdue.”
Fans, alumni, and sports historians alike are expected to tune in when the documentary drops later this fall. The release also coincides with the 25th anniversary of Dayne’s historic 1999 season — a year in which he shattered NCAA records and brought national attention to the Wisconsin Badgers program.
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