The phrase "lovable underdog" refers to someone or something that is seen as weak or disadvantaged, but is still liked or supported by others. Full definition
Enjoy them as lovable underdogs now, before they turn into the Golden State Warriors, Atlantic edition). (sbnation.com)
«With tiny budgets like $ 310 million, $ 100 million, and $ 95 million respectively, how can lovable underdogs like Greenpeace, Sierra Club, and NRDC * ever * hope to compete with mighty Heartland's $ 6.5 million? (desmogblog.com)
The Ramblers don't want to be known as lovable underdogs, but that doesn't mean they don't fit the profile. (si.com)