Greater

In 1999, Marty Burlsworth confronts the death of his brother Brandon as funeral preparations begin. He struggles to reconcile the loss with his faith, feeling abandoned by a God he once trusted. The weight of grief is intensified by an ominous voice that haunts his thoughts.

An imaginary figure called The Farmer enters as a voice of doubt about faith, challenging Marty's sense of purpose. The exchange deepens his anger and makes the tragedy feel personal. It foreshadows the internal battle Marty will face throughout the film.

The story shifts to Brandon at age 12, dreaming of playing for the University of Arkansas. He trains relentlessly and envisions a future on the Razorbacks, laying the groundwork for perseverance. Family support and early hurdles hint at the determination to come.

Marty, 17 years older than Brandon, protects his younger brother as their alcoholic father Leo tries to reconnect with the family. Barbara stays hopeful in faith while Marty struggles with anger. The unstable family situation sets the stage for Brandon's later choices.

In 1994, Brandon attempts to join the Razorbacks as a walk-on offensive guard after not receiving a scholarship. Coaches and teammates doubt his size and potential, making the path seem almost impossible. He remains stubbornly committed to proving them wrong.

Offensive line coach Mike Bender questions whether Brandon will ever make the team due to his size. Teammates relentlessly taunt him, testing his resolve. Brandon's perseverance begins to shift perceptions on the practice field.

Brandon dedicates himself to the weight room and conditioning, shedding fat and building muscle. His dramatic transformation earns him the respect of some skeptics and strengthens his resolve. The change signals that he has found the drive to overcome the odds.

During his sophomore year, head coach Danny Ford awards him a scholarship, validating his hard work. The scholarship secures his place on the team and boosts his confidence. Brandon's rising status begins to impact the Razorbacks' ambitions.

Brandon earns a starting position at right guard on the offensive line. He earns the trust of teammates and coaches through consistent effort and teamwork. His presence helps the team push toward a season of near greatness.

In 1998, Brandon achieves All-American honors and contributes to a team approaching greatness. His dedication inspires teammates and elevates the program's profile. The season feels like a turning point driven by his relentless work.

After college, Brandon is drafted in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. A workout in Indianapolis reinforces the belief in his bright professional future. The moment marks the transition from college dreams to the professional stage.

Eleven days after being drafted, Brandon is killed in a head-on collision with a tractor-trailer. The sudden loss devastates his family, friends, and fans who believed in his potential. The tragedy tests Marty's faith and sets the emotional course for the film's remainder.

Back on the field, players lay flowers across the stadium as a tribute to Brandon. Marty watches as the flowers spell out a message—'We Trust'—a symbol of Brandon's faith and his brother's new resolve. The moment catalyzes a renewed sense of faith in Marty.

Marty leaves the stadium with a renewed faith inspired by Brandon's life and message. He commits to honoring his brother through perseverance and belief. The film closes on a hopeful note, suggesting a legacy of trust and resilience.