With the Big Game right around the corner, why not curl up on the couch with your kids and some cozy comfort food to watch films that celebrate football?
Six of my family’s faves:
Little Giants
Starring Rick Moranis and Ed O’Neill, this rough-and-tumble football hit will have you rolling. Sibling rivalries, underdogs, cherishing your modern family – all things that make this '90s classic memorable:
The Game Plan
Less about football and more about family, this funny film stars Dwayne Johnson (The Rock) as a self-centered NFL quarterback and ultimate bachelor tackled by unexpected fatherhood.
And just in case you need two more reasons to watch this particular movie?
His arms. You’re welcome.
Remember the Titans
Thinking of taking a more serious, but inspirational route? Then this is a good one. The true story starring Denzel Washington at the helm of a recently race-integrated team will encourage conversations about race relations, human differences and working together as a team.
The Blind Side
The love of a game changes everything in this one, starring Sandra Bullock as a mother who transforms the life of a young man. Based on the true story of Michael Oher, who went from being homeless to first-round NFL draft pick, it’s a heartstring tugger, especially since it covers nontraditional families, foster care and the basics of helping those in need.
Rudy and Radio
These two are great additions to your football-movie marathon. Courage, overcoming obstacles and odds, and all things heartwarming play to viewers’ softer sides, and they star Hollywood greats Sean Astin, Cuba Gooding Jr. and Ed Harris. Let’s just say you should probably plan on passing popcorn while reaching for the tissues at the same time.
And, since a lot of the Big Game fun is dedicated to eating, why not truly make it a family affair by bringing your kids into the kitchen to get their hands deliciously dirty? We’re talking pizza dip, parents. It’s going to be good.
Served best with toasted baguette bread slices, pita bread, and pretzel sticks, there won’t be any leftovers. Promise.
Pizza Dip
Ingredients
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded
1 cup pizza sauce
1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded
12 pepperoni slices
Directions
Mix the cream cheese, sour cream mayonnaise, and mozzarella and spread it across the bottom a dish. (A circular pie plate will mimic the look of a traditional pizza.) Spread the pizza sauce on top, sprinkle on the cheese and add pepperoni slices. Bake in a preheated 350-degree oven until the dip is bubbling and the cheese has melted, approximately 20 minutes.