The best sports movies are about more than just sports; they're about life. Adam Sandler's recent film, Hustle, has once again reminded film viewers of this fact. Whether the viewer is a lifelong ball player them self, or someone who would never be caught turning on the game, these films often have something for their audience to connect with.

Whether it's Jack Cunningham's struggle with alcoholism in The Way Back, or the devout pressure applied to the young athletes in Friday Night Lights, the themes of these films will always have something to teach. Fans on Ranker broke down their most inspirational sports movies.

Note: Ranker lists are live and continue to accrue votes, so some rankings may have changed after this publishing.

The Sandlot

The Sandlot team poses for the camera

For many, The Sandlot is a staple movie of childhood, and will always be a nostalgic trip about more than just baseball. The film is more of a coming age tale than anything, about the bonds of childhood and family, and contains a plethora of life lessons and memorable quotes.

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"You want a s'more?" and "You're killing me, Smalls!" are just two of the lines in The Sandlot which became larger than pop culture. The inspiration of the film comes from the connection between Benny and Smalls, as the film's epilogue shows them as still great pals later in life.

Rocky II

Rocky in Rocky 2

The sequel to the king of underdog stories, Rocky II is about Rocky's ascension to fame, and the hubris that comes with it. The hubris exists not only in Rocky, but also in Apollo Creed, leading to Rocky's first boxing win.

Rocky Balboa is the perfect sports protagonist. He has heart and cares so much, making him easy to follow. The film also introduces the audience more to Apollo Creed, creating a more complex tale of what it means to win and lose.

We Are Marshall

Matthew McConaughey and Matthew Fox in We Are Marshall

We Are Marshall is a film about great tragedy and loss, and the importance of sports in those times. Based off the true story of Marshall University's tragic loss of life from a plane crash, the film adaptation is about how their football team overcame the great loss and adversity.

The film is highly emotional and, driven by an incredible speech by Matthew McConaughey, is about the healing of a town filled with this grief. The words of McConaughey and the efforts of the entire team and town provide a bittersweet and inspirational tale.

Field Of Dreams

Ray and John talking in Field of Dreams.

Kevin Costner was on top of the world in the late '80s and early '90s, making Field of Dreams a huge hit for both fans of baseball and movie goers. The film takes a sincere approach to life, and the goals and aspirations of normal, flawed, people. Field of Dreams is also one of Ray Liotta's best films.

For fans who grew up with baseball, this film will be an incredible nostalgia trip about parental relationships. Field of Dreams tells a deeply spiritual tale of making the most of the time in your life, and trying to chase great opportunities, despite any resistance.

The Blind Side

Leigh Ann Tuohy talking to Michael on the football field in The Blind Side

One of the more controversial films in the ranking, The Blind Side has received mixed reviews since its release. The film follows the story of real life NFL player Michael Oher, in his path through school with the help of his adoptive parents, who help him realize his full potential.

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The film has been criticized by some fans for being a 'savior' story, as many believe Michael Oher deserves the credit himself for the success he achieved rather than his parents, played by Sandra Bullock and Tim McGraw. Many still believe the story is true to life and is a heart wrenching tale of overcoming adversity through sports.

Miracle

Based on the tale of the 1980 Olympics, which was given the name 'Miracle on Ice,' the film adaptation Miracle follows Kurt Russell in his mission to bring the United States a gold medal. The movie captures an idealized sense of belief in country and patriotism.

Regardless of whether the viewer accepts these ideals, the film is still a wonderful underdog tale. Miracle is directed by Gavin O'Connor, who's made a career at making exceptional sports movies, including Warrior and The Way BackMiracle is one of the best movies about ice hockey.

Hoosiers

Coach Dale poses with his team in Hoosiers

While Friday Night Lights provides commentary on the obsessive nature of football in Texas, Hoosiers is about the pressures of basketball in Indiana. The film follows the formula of great sports films, with the addition of the acting of the great Gene Hackman.

The film can often be viewed by modern viewers for having clichés, but it was also one of the earliest film releases fans ranked. For its time, Hoosiers was an innovative sports story, and still has tons of value for fans of basketball history and stories about underdogs.

Rocky

Rocky at the top of the steps

Rocky is the blueprint for the underdog sports narrative, following a simple nobody who takes hold of a once in a lifetime opportunity to fight professional boxer Apollo Creed. The film's reputation has even grown since, as the story about Sylvester Stallone's creation of it became well known.

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This is because Rocky's creation is also an underdog story, of Stallone's tenacity in earning himself not only his script being made, but also the leading role. The film would lead Rocky Balboa to be a hero of cinema for many sequels to come, and Stallone to become one of the greatest movie stars of his time.

Remember The Titans

Coach Boone lying on the field with a player in Remember the Titans

There are few stories of overcoming adversity as thrilling and enjoyable as Remember the Titans. Only the TV adaptation of Friday Night Lights has as diverse and rich of a cast for a sports project. Starring Denzel Washington, the film is filled with iconic lines and moments.

The film is about a divided team overcoming their prejudices to reach their full potential, filled with life lessons, Denzel Washington's acting, and Ryan Gosling dancing. The film is one of the most inspirational strictly due to its memorable entertainment value, making each cinematic speech more impactful.

Rudy

Rudy being carried off the field

While most sports films follow a macho cast of characters, Rudy follows a small, unathletic teenaged character, played by the lovable Sean Astin. Rudy is about the value of heart over the strength of intangibles. Rudy may be small, but he has more heart than anyone.

Sports movies often follow similar themes, but Rudy is the pinnacle of inspirational stories. The movie is about the perseverance to overcome great obstacles, and has a long standing fan base of nostalgia. For many, Rudy is the go to feel good movie.

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