
As President and co-founder of Omaha Productions, Jamie Horowitz has consistently pushed the boundaries of sports storytelling. His latest project, “The Buddy Way,” premiering January 29 on ESPN2, exemplifies this approach by chronicling the remarkable journey of the late Dartmouth coach Buddy Teevens. The documentary, which has already garnered significant attention following its Paley Center screening, showcases Horowitz’s talent for identifying and amplifying stories that transcend traditional sports narratives.
The Evolution of Sports Documentary Under Horowitz’s Leadership
Working alongside Peyton Manning, media executive Horowitz has steered Omaha Productions toward projects that challenge conventional sports programming. The partnership between Manning and Horowitz began in 2020 when they recognized a shared vision for creating content that would unite and uplift audiences. Their collaboration led to the formation of Omaha Productions, which has since become a powerhouse in sports media production.
Under Horowitz’s guidance, the company has expanded from a modest team of three to a full-scale production company, creating content for major platforms including ESPN, Netflix, and The History Channel. The success of projects like ManningCast demonstrated the potential of their innovative approach to sports content, paving the way for more ambitious productions like “The Buddy Way.”
Jamie Horowitz brought decades of experience in sports media to Omaha Productions, having previously served as a senior executive at ESPN where he developed groundbreaking shows like First Take and SportsNation. This background in creating engaging sports content has proven invaluable in shaping the company’s approach to documentary filmmaking.
Building a Legacy Through Storytelling
The documentary’s production process illustrates Horowitz’s collaborative approach to content creation. Working with director Rory Karpf and leveraging Manning’s personal connection to Teevens through the Manning Passing Academy, Horowitz helped craft a narrative that resonates with both sports enthusiasts and general audiences.
“The key to effective storytelling is finding the universal elements in specific experiences,” Horowitz notes. “With Buddy’s story, we had an opportunity to show how one person’s commitment to doing things differently can create lasting change.” This philosophy has guided the documentary’s development from its inception through its upcoming premiere.
The film features never-before-seen footage and intimate interviews with those who knew Teevens best, including NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, who attended the documentary’s preview screening at The Paley Center. These elements combine to create what Horowitz describes as “a portrait of innovation and humanity in sports.”
Under Horowitz’s leadership, Omaha Productions has developed a distinctive approach to sports documentaries that emphasizes personal narratives while maintaining broader cultural relevance. This strategy has helped the company grow rapidly, with industry experts predicting continued expansion in the coming years.
Following its ESPN2 premiere, an extended version of the documentary will be available on ESPN+, allowing viewers to dive deeper into Teevens’ story. This format aligns with Horowitz’s strategy of creating content that can be experienced on multiple levels, serving both casual viewers and those seeking more in-depth exploration.
As Omaha Productions continues to expand its influence in sports media, “The Buddy Way” stands as a testament to Horowitz’s vision for meaningful storytelling. The documentary not only preserves Teevens’ legacy but also demonstrates how sports narratives can contribute to broader conversations about safety, inclusion, and innovation in athletics