How about those Chiefs?! With the Chiefs headed to the Super Bowl for an unprecedented third season in a row tomorrow, it is more than clear that football is more than just a game. It’s a culture, a history, and, for many, a lifelong passion. Whether you’re a die-hard football enthusiast or someone who’s curious about the game’s rich history and the players who made it iconic, there are books that can bring the world of football to life in ways that stats and highlight reels just can’t. If you want to dive deep into the heart of the sport, or just want to extend this wonderful season beyond the big game tomorrow, here are some fantastic football books to add to your reading list:

Why We Love Football: A History in 100 Moments by Joe Posnanski

Joe’s book is a great read for anyone who has ever wondered what makes the sport so captivating. Rather than just focusing on stats and figures, he delves into 100 moments that defined the game’s history, capturing the magic and drama of football through its most unforgettable plays. Whether it’s a last-second touchdown, a game-changing hit, or a moment of sheer grit, he paints a picture of why football has such an enduring place in our hearts. This book feels likec a love letter to the game, perfect for those who are drawn to football’s emotional side.

Paper Lion by George Plimpton

This book offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the life of a professional football player from the perspective of an amateur. George was an acclaimed journalist and spent a season with the Detroit Lions, stepping onto the field as a “paper” player to experience the NFL firsthand. This classic is part memoir, part sports journalism, and it balances humor with a genuine respect for the players and the game. It’s a fascinating exploration of the mental and physical challenges faced by professional athletes.

Bleachers by John Grisham

A novel that centers on a group of former high school football players who return to their hometown for the funeral of their legendary coach, Eddie Rake. Set in the small town of Messina, the story is narrated by Neely, a former quarterback who once had a promising future before his career was derailed by injury. As each of the players returns, they wrestle with unresolved emotions, while reflecting on the impact Coach Rake had on them both as players and as people.

The Game: Harvard, Yale, and America in 1968 by George Howe Colt

This book isn’t just about football—it’s about the culture, the rivalry, and the era that shaped the sport. George recounts the infamous 1968 Harvard versus Yale game, a clash that transcended sports and became a national event. Set during a time of political unrest, social upheaval, and societal change, the book uses the game as a way to explore the broader context of American life during the late ‘60s. It’s a great read for anyone who wants to understand how football intersects with history and culture.

Meat Market: Inside the Smash-Mouth World of College Football Recruiting by Bruce Feldman

If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of college football recruiting, this is the book for you. Bruce takes you inside the process, revealing the intense competition and often murky practices that shape the recruitment of the country’s top high school football players. This isn’t just about scouting talent—it’s about the money, the pressure, and the power dynamics that come with building a football dynasty. For anyone interested in the business side of the sport, this book is an eye-opener.

The Playbook Series by Alexa Martin

For a lighter, more romantic take on football, The Playbook Series is three fun and steamy reads. This series follows the lives of women who are connected to professional football players, offering a peek into the world of NFL wives, girlfriends, and other significant others. The books are filled with drama, passion, and plenty of football references, all while exploring themes of love, loyalty, and personal growth.  Start with Intercepted and enjoy the romance and drama. 

Gym Candy by Carl Deuker

This novel tackles the pressure of youth football and the dangerous allure of performance-enhancing drugs. It follows a high school football player who is faced with making difficult decisions about his future, his body, and his integrity. It’s a gripping, thought-provoking story about the intersection of sports, identity, and the ethical choices athletes face. Carl’s exploration of the darker side of the game is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices players sometimes make in pursuit of glory.

When the Men Were Gone by Marjorie Herrera Lewis

This historical fiction novel offers a unique take on football during World War II. It tells the story of a high school football team in Texas that continues to play even though most of the men have gone off to war. The novel centers around Tylene Wilson, a woman who steps in as the coach, navigating societal expectations, personal challenges, and the desire to keep the sport alive for the community. It’s a compelling narrative about resilience, determination, and the power of football to unite people in times of crisis.

The Underdogs by Mike Lupica

This is a heartfelt story about a group of underprivileged kids who come together to form a youth football team. The book is filled with excitement, drama, and inspiration as it follows the team’s journey toward victory, but it’s also about friendship, overcoming adversity, and finding strength in numbers. Mike’s knack for storytelling makes this book a great read for both young readers and adults who enjoy an uplifting sports tale.

The League: How Five Rivals Created the NFL and Launched a Sports Empire by John Eisenberg

Taking readers back to the early days of the NFL,  this book tells the story of how five rival football team owners came together to create the sport’s most powerful league. John Eisenberg delves into the history of the NFL’s formation, exploring the business deals, personal rivalries, and visionaries who laid the groundwork for today’s football empire. It’s an interesting look at the origins of the league and how football transformed into the multi-billion-dollar industry it is today. 

Happy reading!

Featured in the February 8, 2025 issue of The Independent