Netflix documentary on SEC debuts. Did Georgia Bulldogs make the cut
Netflix is set to release an eight-part documentary series about SEC football, capturing the 2024 season. The series will debut in the summer of 2025 and promises an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the conference.
However, Georgia has opted out of participation in the film.
Other notable exclusions include Alabama, Oklahoma, Ole Miss and Texas.
The docuseries is from the same production company that created Box to Box Films and the team behind “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” and promises “unfiltered access” to coaches and players of the participating teams.
WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT THE SERIES
Aside from the high-profile exclusions, there are still quite a few teams willing to be featured:
- Arkansas
- Auburn
- Florida
- Kentucky
- Louisiana State
- Mississippi State
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas A&M
- Vanderbilt
The documentary is modeled after the popular series “Drive to Survive” which follows the drivers, team owners and other key figures of the Formula One World Championship.
The Formula One series dramatically increased the popularity of the sport, and SEC officials hope to garner the same results.
SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey enthusiastically described the series in the Netflix press release. He said, “This behind-the-scenes docuseries will bring all the drama and pageantry of Southeastern Conference Football to a worldwide Netflix audience.”
WHY DID THE DAWGS OPT OUT?
Head Coach Kirby Smart’s decision is based on strategic reasons deeply rooted in their program’s culture. The decision aligns with Smart’s philosophy of maintaining strict focus and controlling team information.
Smart’s approach is epitomized by his statement after defeating Texas: “We didn’t come here to take pictures. Our intent was to eat.”
Although Smart declined the official offer from the streaming company, he has previously used the documentary concept as a motivational tool.
Last fall On3 media reported, “During a practice session, he asked players, ‘If they were doing a Netflix documentary on you this week, who would you want to watch it?’”
Long-time Dawgs fans will understand this decision is not out of character for the team’s culture. It reflects their commitment to privacy and allows Kirby and the team to maintain control of their story, focusing entirely on their on-field success rather than media representation.
Will you be watching? Email me your thoughts at srose@ledger-enquirer.comor find me on Instagram.
