NFL Films features story of Charlotte coach who moved in his QB and won a state title
Seven years ago, Sam Greiner met Braheam Murphy and two lives were changed.
Greiner, the football coach, eventually gained a son. Murphy, who was basically homeless, gained a home, a sense of belonging.
Together, they did something magical. Greiner coached Harding to the 2017 N.C. 4A state championship. Murphy was named offensive MVP.
Harding had not won a state championship since 1953.
The story about the bond between coach and quarterback went national right after Harding won, with outlets like CNN telling the story. Murphy got to beat the “Keep Pounding” drum before a Panthers game. Greiner and his wife Connie eventually landed on CBS’ “The Amazing Race.”
On Wednesday, NFL Films detailed the story of Greiner and Murphy in a segment that aired on FS1.
Murphy, 23, is a senior football player at Army now. Greiner, 40, is the head football coach at West Charlotte and has been a co-host on The Observer’s “Talking Preps” streaming show for four years.
Greiner said NFL Films shot footage for the piece at Harding High, his home and at West Point. NFL Films also came to a West Charlotte game earlier this fall. He said he’s excited for the nation to see Murphy’s story.
“Braheam had greatness living inside him always,” Greiner said. “He’s the greatest leader I’ve ever met. I’m proud to call my son. He’s the greatest role model I’ve ever met; to not be afraid or ashamed of his circumstances; to let others know, when you have issues, get help. So it doesn’t surprise me to see him (nearing graduation) at West Point, and to graduate from the academy is very, very difficult. But I knew Braheam has beaten the odds his entire life.
“We’ll know him 20 years from now as one of the greatest leaders in this country.”
This story was originally published October 30, 2022 at 7:00 AM.
