Emotions intensify as the game against the intimidating Gatling High nears; rumours alienate Lyla and Tim from their friends; Smash puts his health at risk to improve his on-field performance.
Summer comes to an end, and the team hopes to continue its success despite many changes taking place; Eric begins his career as TMU head coach; Tami goes into labor; someone from Tyra's past visits her; Matt and Landry struggle with new lifestyles.
The first day of school brings many changes; Tami's new life as the mother of a newborn proves to be difficult; Saracen's 'perfect' life slowly slips away; Landry tries to embrace his new lifestyle; coaches, scouts and fans praise Smash.
An unexpected incident occurs at the end of Smash's first recruiting trip; Saracen asks his girlfriend for an open relationship; Tami explodes on a teacher she thinks is getting too close to Julie; the brother of Tyra's attacker wants to meet her.
A tornado hits the Dillon County area, damaging a rival high school; coach Taylor welcomes Laribee; Julie and Tami adjust to Tim Riggins living in their house; tension builds between Landry and Tyra.