A Texas high-school football team holds the hopes of the town, as the players prepare for the season opener.
The second-string quarterback finds himself in the spotlight in the wake of Jason Street's serious injury; as game day approaches, the team appears united, pledging to win the game for a teammate.
The town turns on coach Taylor following a difficult loss; emotion and frustration culminate in a fight, as the team's injured quarterback begins rehabilitation.
Coach Taylor must find a way to bring the team together against its biggest rival; Jason Street's new roommate at the rehab center makes him realize his recovery potential.
Coach Taylor is unsure how strong his team will be without Smash; a new star player (Jeremy Sumpter) arrives on the scene; a season-ending injury results in Smash losing his college scholarship.