Madison, WI — Netflix has once again tapped into the heart of college football lore, announcing the upcoming release of “The Underdog,” a powerful new documentary chronicling the life and legacy of Wisconsin Badgers legend Ron Dayne. The film is officially slated to premiere on September 6, 2025, just in time to kick off the college football season.
Known as “The Great Dayne,” Ron Dayne became a household name in the late 1990s, capturing the imagination of fans with his record-setting performances, punishing running style, and unshakable humility. The upcoming documentary will not only revisit his unforgettable moments on the field but also tell the deeper story of a man who defied expectations, overcame adversity, and left an indelible mark on the sport.
Netflix dropped a teaser trailer and press release early Wednesday morning, sending Badger Nation — and the college football world — into a frenzy.
“Ron Dayne didn’t just break records,” said director Angela Holbrook, whose previous work includes the critically acclaimed “Friday Night Legends”. “He redefined what it meant to be a workhorse, to lead with quiet strength, and to represent his school with pride. This film is about more than just football — it’s about grit, perseverance, and legacy.”
Dayne, the 1999 Heisman Trophy winner, remains the all-time leading rusher in NCAA Division I FBS history for regular season play, amassing a jaw-dropping 6,397 rushing yards during his time at Wisconsin. But “The Underdog” dives deeper than the stats. It explores Dayne’s humble upbringing in Blackwood, New Jersey, the obstacles he faced as a student-athlete, and the pressure of being thrust into the national spotlight at just 18 years old.
The film also addresses the often-overlooked reality of Dayne’s professional career — a journey filled with unfulfilled expectations and constant comparisons to his college dominance. Former NFL coaches, teammates, and Dayne himself offer candid insights into the mental and physical toll of making the jump to the pros.
In an emotional interview clip featured in the teaser, Dayne says:
“I was never supposed to be that guy. I wasn’t flashy, I wasn’t loud. I just kept my head down and ran hard. That’s what Wisconsin taught me — that hard work speaks louder than words.”
The documentary also includes commentary from college football greats like Barry Alvarez, who coached Dayne at Wisconsin, as well as ESPN analysts Kirk Herbstreit and Desmond Howard. Former teammates and current Badgers players reflect on how Dayne’s legacy continues to inspire new generations in Madison.
Netflix has confirmed that “The Underdog” will be available globally and will be accompanied by a live premiere event hosted on the University of Wisconsin campus at Camp Randall Stadium, featuring a red carpet, alumni appearances, and a tribute to Dayne’s historic college career.
Current Badgers head coach Luke Fickell praised the announcement, calling the documentary “a gift to the program and to college football as a whole.”
“Ron’s impact is bigger than football,” Fickell said. “He’s a role model, not just for our players, but for anyone who’s ever been underestimated.”
Fans have already flooded social media with excitement, with hashtags like #TheUnderdog and #GreatDayne trending within hours of the announcement. Many are calling it a long-overdue tribute to a player who never sought the spotlight but earned it with every carry.
As Netflix continues to expand its sports documentary catalog, “The Underdog” stands out as a celebration of humility, excellence, and perseverance — a fitting portrait of a man who ran through defenses and into history.
Mark your calendars: September 6, 2025. The story of Ron Dayne — the ultimate underdog — is finally getting the spotlight it deserves.