Coach Taylor wonders how low his fortunes can sink as he struggles to pull the East Dillon Lions together while Tami navigates the new politics at West Dillon. Meanwhile, Matt gets a taste of life as a townie and Tim is inspired by a college lecture on "the hero's journey."

Homecoming at the newly-reopened school prompts Coach to investigate East Dillon's history. Tami feels the wrath of the boosters. Landry and Vince both like Jess. Julie accompanies Devin to a gay bar. Matt and Tim go hunting.

Julie, Landry, Coach, and Tami rally around Matt in a time of crisis; Vince endangers his rising star as a football player by engaging in criminal activity in order to support his family; Becky and Tim grow closer.

Eric realizes that East Dillon's problems aren't only on the field; Jess tries to choose between Vince and Landry; Luke's injury takes a toll on him; and Riggins makes a decision that could backfire.

Coach tempers high expectations for East Dillon's impending season; Vince and Luke work to recruit a new player for the Lions' squad; Dillon bids farewell to two alumni as they prepare to leave for college.