Fans of Texas Tech football are now able to delve into the behind-the-scenes world of their favorite team through the newly released docuseries, "The Program." This four-part series, which premiered on Paramount+ on September 4, provides a comprehensive look at the Red Raiders' offseason, chronicling the events that have shaped the team as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Filmed over nine months, the documentary captures the essence of the Texas Tech football program, featuring narration by actor Dennis Quaid that evokes the spirit of classic sports dramas like "Friday Night Lights." The initial episode sets the stage by recounting the team's journey to its current status, introducing key players such as Ben Roberts, Terrance Carter Jr., and the focal point of much of the narrative, Brendan Sorsby. The episode concludes with a shocking revelation about Sorsby facing a $1 million lawsuit from Cincinnati, a story highlighted by KAMC journalist David Collier.
As the series progresses, viewers witness pivotal moments including Texas Tech's spring game and the challenges that arose when head coach Joey McGuire informed the team about Sorsby's gambling investigation. The documentary also showcases lighter moments, such as the defensive linemen donning cowboy outfits and participating in rodeo activities, providing a glimpse into the camaraderie within the team.
The tone shifts dramatically in Episode 3 as the implications of Sorsby's situation become more pronounced. The episode features Will Hammond working diligently to recover from an ACL injury while Ben Roberts navigates the complexities of leadership during a tumultuous period for the program. Ultimately, Sorsby receives an injunction to keep his legal troubles at bay, but the emotional toll on the team is evident.
The finale of the series, which I had the opportunity to preview, quickly transitions from Sorsby's story to the team's efforts to regroup and focus on the upcoming season. The first ten minutes briefly address the backlash Texas Tech faced due to Sorsby's situation, while the remainder of the episode emphasizes the team's resilience and preparation for the year ahead, including Sorsby making a brief appearance at practice during fall camp.
One of the most anticipated segments of the documentary occurs at the beginning of Episode 4, where Sorsby opens up about his struggles with gambling. He candidly discusses his past and the circumstances that led to his current situation, acknowledging that he had engaged in betting even after arriving in Lubbock, contradicting earlier claims made by both himself and the Texas Tech program. Sorsby expressed remorse for the negative impact his actions had on his teammates, revealing an emotional moment shared with Coach McGuire when the decision was made to part ways with the team amid the legal troubles.
Throughout the series, viewers are treated to various insights, including unexpected interviews with players like freshman running back Ashton Rowden and discussions surrounding Sorsby's lucrative NIL deal, which has been reported to be worth between $4 million and $5 million. The documentary also showcases the personalities of players like Julien Laventure, who humorously refers to himself as Django, and Terrance Carter, who openly enjoys pampering himself with mani-pedis.
As for the overall impact of this documentary on Texas Tech football, opinions may vary. Initially conceived as a straightforward look into the team's dynamics, the series took an unexpected turn with the emergence of Sorsby's gambling saga, which likely enhanced viewer interest. While the documentary succeeds in presenting a compelling narrative, it also raises questions about the selective storytelling that can occur when subjects have input into the content. The omission of certain details regarding the Sorsby situation may leave some viewers wanting more context about the challenges faced by the program during that critical time.
In conclusion, "The Program" offers a multifaceted view of Texas Tech football, capturing both the triumphs and tribulations of the team. While it may not change the perception of the program among critics, it provides an engaging narrative for fans and serves as a testament to the resilience of the Red Raiders as they look ahead to the 2026 season.
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