ESPN’s New Documentary on Buddy Teevens Is a Reminder of What Coaching Can Be
Listen to this articleIn December 2020, NFL legend Peyton Manning and media executive Jamie Horowitz co-founded Omaha Productions, aiming to reimagine sports media through innovative programming and authentic storytelling.
One of Omaha Productions’ most impactful projects might be the new ESPN documentary The Buddy Way, which chronicles the life and legacy of the late Buddy Teevens, a revered figure in college football coaching. Teevens, who passed away in September 2023 following a tragic accident, was celebrated not only for his coaching prowess but also for his progressive and compassionate approach to the sport.
The hour-long film, directed by Rory Karpf, premieres on January 29, 2025, on ESPN2, with an extended version available on ESPN+. It delves into Teevens’ profound influence on his players, colleagues, and the broader football community. Notably, Teevens was a pioneer in promoting player safety and inclusivity. He was the first college football coach to hire a female assistant and developed the Mobile Virtual Player (MVP), a remote-controlled tackling device designed to reduce injuries during practice.
Peyton Manning’s connection to Teevens added a personal dimension to the documentary. Teevens had been involved with the Manning Passing Academy since its inception in 1996 and had previously attempted to recruit Manning to Tulane University. Reflecting on their relationship, Manning recounted, “When I chose to go to Tennessee, my dad made me drive to [Teevens’] office at Tulane and tell him directly. Buddy, not only does he tell me, ‘Congratulations, great decision,’ he reassures me and tells me why Tennessee is the perfect place for me. That’s the kind of person he was. He wanted the best for everyone.”
The documentary also highlights Teevens’ innovative problem-solving skills and his unwavering positivity. Manning shared an anecdote from the Manning Passing Academy when a potential weather situation led to a shortage of coaches. Teevens adeptly managed the situation by assigning roles creatively, even enlisting ESPN reporter Chris Mortensen to coach quarterbacks after a brief training session. “That’s the kind of thing that made him special. He thrived and stayed positive and found solutions in any situation,” Manning noted.
The show had a special screening at The Paley Center this past Thursday night. Among those in attendance at the premiere were Omaha co-founders Peyton Manning and Jamie Horowitz, former NFL QB Eli Manning, Patriots owners Robert and Jonathan Kraft, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, CBS analyst Bill Cowher, Amazon Prime NFL analyst Ryan Fitzpatrick, and former NFL QB Jay Fiedler.
Omaha Productions’ involvement in The Buddy Way underscores the company’s commitment to producing content that entertains, educates, and inspires. Since its founding, the company has experienced rapid growth, expanding its portfolio to include live sports, documentaries, and cultural events. Starting with a modest team of three, Omaha Productions has evolved into a media powerhouse, reshaping how audiences connect with sports and entertainment content.
The success of Omaha Productions can be attributed to the complementary strengths of its co-founders. Peyton Manning contributed his deep understanding of football, natural charisma, and extensive network of relationships throughout professional sports. Jamie Horowitz, with his extensive background in sports media, brought decades of experience crafting engaging programming, including pioneering talk formats like First Take and SportsNation. Their combined expertise created a foundation for storytelling that connects with both avid fans and casual viewers.
One of their most notable achievements is the creation of the ManningCast, an innovative take on Monday Night Football featuring Peyton and his brother Eli Manning providing casual commentary and insights. This format has been lauded for its fresh perspective and has garnered a dedicated following, further cementing Omaha Productions’ reputation for innovation in sports media.
“The Buddy Way is the type of content Omaha Productions strives to create,” said Horowitz. “We love stories highlighting the human side of sports and the individuals who make a lasting impact.”
For college football coaches and sports enthusiasts alike, the documentary offers valuable lessons in leadership, innovation, and the profound influence a coach can have beyond the game. In an era where the culture of football is continually evolving, The Buddy Way provides a poignant reminder of the importance of prioritizing player well-being, embracing inclusivity, and fostering a positive environment. Buddy Teevens’ legacy, as captured in this documentary, serves as an inspiring blueprint for coaches at all levels, emphasizing that success in sports is not solely measured by wins and losses but by the lasting impact on players’ lives and the advancement of the game.
The Buddy Way is more than just a documentary; it’s a masterclass in leadership, empathy, and the enduring power of positive influence. It’s a must-watch that underscores the profound responsibility coaches have in shaping athletes and individuals who carry the lessons learned on the field into their broader lives. Through Omaha Productions’ thoughtful storytelling, The Buddy Way ensures that Teevens’ visionary approach to coaching will continue to inspire and guide the football community for years to come.
