Breaking: Netflix Unveils “Against All Odds: The Kenny Dillingham Story” – A Gripping Look at ASU Football’s Historic Rise
In a powerful new documentary titled Against All Odds: The Kenny Dillingham Story, Netflix pulls back the curtain on one of the most improbable transformations in college football history: the resurgence of the Arizona State Sun Devils under head coach Kenny Dillingham. The 90-minute film, which premiered worldwide today, captures the gritty, emotional, and relentless journey of a young coach who refused to let his alma mater fade into obscurity.
The documentary opens in the fall of 2022, when Arizona State football was mired in NCAA investigations, fan apathy, and a revolving door of coaching staff. Enter Dillingham—an Arizona native and ASU alum—who, at just 32 years old, became the youngest head coach in the Power Five. Many critics dismissed his appointment as a desperation move by a program on life support. What followed proved them all wrong.
Through exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and stirring locker room moments, the film paints a vivid picture of Dillingham’s vision: instilling discipline, modernizing the playbook, and restoring pride to a fractured team. Viewers are taken inside the first grueling offseason workouts where players were tested physically and mentally. Cameras capture emotional scenes of Dillingham personally mentoring struggling players, emphasizing not just performance but character.
Netflix filmmakers embedded with the Sun Devils during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, chronicling a dramatic climb from the depths of the Pac-12 to a stunning 10-2 finish in 2024. Signature moments include the electric overtime win against USC, the record-breaking home attendance versus Oregon, and the emotional senior night speech by quarterback Jaden Rashada, who credits Dillingham with “saving my career and giving me purpose.”
The documentary also explores the off-field culture shift, highlighting Dillingham’s push for academic excellence and community engagement. One standout scene shows Dillingham organizing a surprise visit from Pat Tillman’s family during a team retreat, reminding players of the legacy they represent. The message: football is more than just wins—it’s about identity, integrity, and impact.
Critics are already hailing Against All Odds as one of Netflix’s most inspiring sports documentaries to date. With a pulsating score, dynamic cinematography, and raw, unscripted emotion, the film transcends sports, resonating with anyone who has faced adversity and fought to rise above it.
“This isn’t just about football,” Dillingham says in the closing moments, his voice cracking with emotion. “This is about believing in something bigger than yourself—even when no one else does.”
Against All Odds is now streaming globally on Netflix. For Arizona State fans, college football lovers, and underdog believers everywhere, it’s a must-watch celebration of heart, grit, and the power of belief.
