February 16, 2025

**NCAA NEWS: Netflix Set to Release a Documentary Series on Ohio State Legend Cornelius Greene**

In a thrilling announcement for college football fans, Netflix has confirmed that it is set to release a documentary series about the legendary career of Cornelius Greene, the former quarterback who led the Ohio State Buckeyes to unprecedented success in the early 1970s. The project, currently in development, promises to offer an in-depth look into Greene’s impactful life both on and off the field, his contributions to college football, and his role in shaping the legacy of one of the sport’s most storied programs.

### A Star is Born: Cornelius Greene’s Journey to Ohio State

Cornelius Greene’s rise to prominence as one of college football’s most influential players started long before his days at Ohio State. Born in the segregated South, Greene grew up in a time when African-American athletes faced significant barriers, both socially and athletically. Despite these challenges, Greene’s talent on the football field was undeniable, catching the attention of recruiters across the nation. His decision to attend Ohio State would prove pivotal, not just for his career but for the future of college football as a whole.

Greene joined Ohio State in 1971, under the guidance of legendary head coach Woody Hayes. In those days, the Buckeyes were known for their dominance, and Greene’s arrival coincided with a new era for the team. While Ohio State had a strong history of success, Greene’s impact would extend far beyond just his individual accomplishments.

### Cornelius Greene’s Impact at Ohio State

As Ohio State’s starting quarterback, Greene immediately made his presence known. His skill set was revolutionary for the time—combining an elusive running ability with a solid passing game, Greene was one of the early dual-threat quarterbacks. At a time when most quarterbacks were more traditional pocket passers, his ability to extend plays with his legs and create opportunities through improvisation was something the college game had never seen before.

Under Greene’s leadership, Ohio State enjoyed incredible success. His most significant achievement came in the 1974 season, when he led the Buckeyes to an undefeated season and a Big Ten Championship. Greene’s performance in big games was remarkable, particularly in Ohio State’s victories over archrival Michigan, which helped cement his legacy in Columbus. His calm under pressure and leadership on the field made him a favorite among fans, teammates, and coaches alike.

The 1975 season was equally impressive. Greene’s ability to guide the team to a series of victories, including one in the Orange Bowl, solidified his place as one of the best quarterbacks in college football. It wasn’t just the wins that defined his time at Ohio State, though. His poise, intelligence, and the way he carried himself helped set the tone for the team and the program as a whole. He was more than just a quarterback—he was a trailblazer.

### Breaking Barriers: Greene’s Role as a Pioneer for African-American Athletes

One of the most significant aspects of Greene’s career was the role he played in breaking racial barriers in college football. As one of the first African-American quarterbacks to start at a major university like Ohio State, Greene faced challenges both on and off the field. While he was undoubtedly a talented player, the social climate of the time often posed additional hurdles. However, Greene’s success served as a catalyst for change, and he became a source of pride for many African-American athletes who saw in him someone they could aspire to emulate.

Throughout his career, Greene handled the pressure and scrutiny with grace and dignity. His success opened doors for other African-American quarterbacks, who were often relegated to other positions, especially in the Big Ten Conference. It was not just Greene’s athletic prowess that made him a pioneer, but his ability to break through societal and cultural barriers, paving the way for future generations of African-American players in college football.

### Off the Field: Greene’s Lasting Legacy

While Cornelius Greene’s playing days ended long ago, his legacy continues to be felt today. The documentary series promises to take a closer look at his life beyond the gridiron, highlighting the way he used his platform to advocate for racial equality and contribute to the growth of the sport. Greene’s story is one of resilience, determination, and overcoming adversity.

For Greene, football was not just about personal achievement; it was about inspiring others. Following his time at Ohio State, Greene went on to play professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL), though his NFL aspirations never fully materialized. Despite this, his impact on the game cannot be overstated. His dual-threat quarterbacking style has since become a standard in today’s game, influencing future generations of quarterbacks like Michael Vick, Lamar Jackson, and others who have revolutionized the position.

The documentary series will also explore Greene’s post-football life, his efforts in the community, and his journey to being recognized as one of the most influential figures in Ohio State history. Greene has remained involved with the university over the years, participating in alumni events and remaining an advocate for the program and its future. His story is one of not just triumph on the field but of perseverance, leadership, and giving back to the community that supported him.

### Netflix’s Commitment to Sports Documentaries

This project is part of Netflix’s ongoing investment in high-quality sports documentaries, following in the footsteps of successful series such as *The Last Dance*, *Formula 1: Drive to Survive*, and *Untold*. The streaming giant has become a major player in sports storytelling, offering fans a deeper look into the lives and careers of legendary athletes. With the Cornelius Greene series, Netflix aims to shine a spotlight on a figure who may not have received the same level of mainstream recognition as other college football icons, but whose contributions to the game and society are undeniably significant.

The documentary will feature interviews with Greene himself, former teammates, coaches, sports analysts, and others who have been influenced by his career. Fans can expect a mix of archival footage, game highlights, and personal stories that paint a complete picture of Greene’s career and lasting influence.

### What This Means for College Football Fans

For college football fans, especially those who follow Ohio State, this documentary series will be a must-watch. Greene is an integral part of the university’s history, and his story adds another layer of depth to the rich tradition of Buckeyes football. His era marked the intersection of athletic prowess and cultural change, and this documentary promises to give audiences a unique insight into a pivotal period of the sport’s development.

Moreover, the series will also offer a broader look at the challenges faced by African-American athletes in the 1970s, as well as the broader social dynamics of college football during that time. It will serve as a reminder of how far the sport—and the country—has come, while also highlighting the work that still needs to be done.

### Conclusion

Cornelius Greene’s story is one of triumph, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievements that changed the face of college football. As Netflix prepares to release its documentary series on the Ohio State legend, fans of the sport, Ohio State, and Greene himself can look forward to a deep dive into the life of one of the most significant players in the history of the game. The series will not only celebrate Greene’s athletic legacy but also provide a powerful reminder of the personal and societal hurdles that he overcame. For anyone interested in the history of college football, this is a series that promises to be both informative and inspiring.

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