9-year-old Sheldon Cooper is a once-in-a-generation mind capable of advanced mathematics and science but learns that isn't always helpful growing up in East Texas, a land where church and football are king.

Sheldon moves in with Dr Sturgis for the weekend to see what his life will be like in college. A lonely Mary tries to bond with the other Coopers during Sheldon's absence.

Sheldon discovers that Mary's been keeping a secret about his future. Meemaw is furious when she learns Dale fired Georgie.

When Sheldon learns the house next door is for sale, he takes it upon himself to find the perfect neighbours. Missy is torn when she's forced to pitch against her boyfriend at the baseball game.

When the taste of his favourite sandwich loaf changes, Sheldon boycotts a bread company and ends up on the local news.

Unhappy that school funds are going toward football rather than academics, Sheldon decides to run for class president.

Sheldon is caught in a moral dilemma when offered a bootleg copy of a computer game he can't afford; Mary and Meemaw take Brenda out for girls' night; Missy asks Georgie to take her and Marcus on a secret date.

Sheldon moves to Dallas to attend a school for gifted children but the family struggle to cope with his absence.

Sheldon fakes being sick to avoid a swim test at school. Meanwhile, Dr Sturgis spies on Meemaw's new boyfriend.

After graduating high school, Sheldon has a breakdown when he realises he may not be ready for college; Dale tries to make amends with Meemaw.

Hoping to recruit Sheldon, the university offers George Sr a job. Mary is determined to rid her home of greed.

Sheldon considers dropping out of college to focus on building his database; George Sr. is frustrated when someone else gets credit for his football wins.

Sheldon's fear of germs leads him to detention when flu season hits Medford, and he goes to extremes to stay healthy.

Meemaw takes matters into her own hands when Sheldon's philosophy teacher sends him into a tailspin; George Sr. learns Georgie has been cutting class.

Sheldon gets the science yips and has to learn how to not think; George Sr. plays handyman at Brenda Sparks' house.

Sheldon makes friends with his dorm neighbors; George Sr. learns his job is in jeopardy.

Sheldon butts heads with Dr. Lee, a new scientist in the lab; Mary is given a lotto ticket.

After Sheldon lost the competition in the science fair he lost his edge and passion and found his new comfort zone in acting.

Sheldon tries to convince Dr. Sturgis to return to the university; Georgie upsets the family when he makes a life-changing decision.

George Sr. is asked to help with the football team; Mandy discovers Georgie and Meemaw's secret business.