The latest documentary from Omaha Productions showcases Jamie Horowitz’s ability to identify and develop compelling sports narratives. Set to premiere January 29 on ESPN2, “The Buddy Way” chronicles the life of innovative Dartmouth coach Buddy Teevens through a lens that captures both his professional achievements and personal impact.
Crafting the Documentary Vision
Working alongside co-founder Peyton Manning, Horowitz has shaped “The Buddy Way” into more than just a sports documentary. The film explores Teevens’ revolutionary decision to eliminate full-contact practices, his development of innovative training technology, and his groundbreaking choice to hire female coaches. “We wanted to tell a story that would resonate beyond the football field,” Horowitz explains. “Buddy’s innovations weren’t just about changing the game – they were about changing lives.”
The production brings together an impressive array of voices, from NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to former players and colleagues. At the recent Paley Center screening, attendees witnessed how Horowitz and the sports media team wove together these perspectives to create a compelling narrative about change and progress in football.
Transforming Sports Storytelling
When Horowitz and Manning founded Omaha Productions in 2020, they shared a vision for creating content that would unite and uplift audiences. This philosophy guided their approach to “The Buddy Way,” as they worked to balance the technical aspects of football innovation with the human elements of Teevens’ story.
“Individual success is a myth. No one succeeds all by herself,” Horowitz often quotes from Pat Summit, reflecting his collaborative approach to production. This mindset proved particularly valuable during the documentary’s development, as the team worked to gather and present never-before-seen footage and personal accounts from Teevens’ career.
Jamie Horowitz brought his extensive experience in sports media production to bear on the project, ensuring that the documentary maintained both its emotional impact and journalistic integrity. His background in developing successful programming like First Take and SportsNation informed the film’s approach to engaging both dedicated sports fans and general audiences.
Building a Legacy of Innovation
The documentary delves deep into Teevens’ impact on player safety, a topic that resonates strongly in today’s sports landscape. Through careful production choices and intimate access to key figures, Horowitz and his team have created a film that speaks to both dedicated football fans and broader audiences interested in stories of innovation and positive change.
“There’s something powerful about watching someone challenge conventional wisdom and succeed,” Horowitz notes. “Buddy’s story shows us that meaningful change often requires courage and persistence.” This theme runs throughout the documentary, reinforced by never-before-seen footage and personal anecdotes from those who knew Teevens best.
Shaping the Future of Sports Content
Following its ESPN2 premiere, an extended version of the documentary will be available on ESPN+, providing viewers with additional insight into Teevens’ legacy. The project exemplifies Horowitz’s commitment to creating content that not only entertains but also contributes to important conversations about the future of sports.
The success of “The Buddy Way” has already influenced Omaha Productions’ approach to future projects. Under Horowitz’s guidance, the company continues to seek out stories that combine compelling personal narratives with broader themes of innovation and social progress.
“When evaluating potential projects, we always ask ourselves if the story has the power to inspire change,” Horowitz shares. “With Buddy’s story, that answer was immediately clear.” This commitment to meaningful storytelling has helped establish Omaha Productions as a leader in sports media, with “The Buddy Way” serving as a prime example of their innovative approach.
