Cindy Creekmore

We will all be tested - In the town of Dillon, Texas, football is life, and no one knows that better than new head Coach Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler). Pressure mounts as the Dillon Panthers, led by star quarterback Jason Street (Scott Porter), enter pre-season surrounded by a swirl of press, recruiters, and State Championship sized expectations. Backup quarterback Matt Saracen (Zach Gilford) prepares to ride the bench in the shadow of Jason Street, as running back Tim Riggins (Taylor Kitsch) struggles with a serious vice. As the season opener grows near, the town of Dillon is focused on what they believe to be most important, winning.

Through faith and courage, tragedy turns to healing - In the wake of star quarterback Jason Street's serious injury, the town of Dillon turns to prayer. Pressure mounts for Coach Taylor and the team as second-string quarterback Matt Saracen is unwittingly thrust into the spotlight, while tensions build between Riggins and "Smash" Williams. Fearing not only for his players, but also his job, Coach Taylor pulls the team together and works one-on-one with the nervous rookie quarterback. Lyla faithfully stands by her man in the hospital, providing him with the courage he needs to recover. The team appears united as game day approaches -- pledging to win it for their fallen comrade. Connie Britton, Adrianne Palicki, Jesse Plemons and Aimee Teegarden also star.

Noose tightens around Coach Taylor during by-week - Facing the Panthers' biggest rival, Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) must find a way to bring the team together while his family falls apart. "Smash" Williams (Gaius Charles) and Tim Riggins (Taylor Kitsch) unite to plot their revenge against the Tigers for the destruction of their field house. At the rehab center, Jason Street (Scott Porter) has given up hope until his new roommate shockingly forces him to realize his potential for recovery. While disrespectful new quarterback, Ray 'Voodoo' Tatum (Aldis Hodge), proves he is unstoppable on the field, rookie Matt Saracen (Zach Gilford) appears to have hit rock bottom. With his back in the corner and the town against him, Coach Taylor has an opportunity to save his job, but only with a W in one week against the Tigers.

Big ideas, big decisions-Tyra’s (Adrianne Palicki) new love, Cash (guest star Zach Roerig), seems to be the man of her dreams but that quickly changes when his dark side comes to light. Jason (Scott Porter) thinks he has a solution to bring him and Erin back together, but she has a very different plan in mind. Meanwhile, after the team wins their big game, Coach Taylor (Kyle Chandler) makes a decision that leaves Matt (Zach Gilford) to debate the future of his football career. Connie Britton, Taylor Kitsch, Minka Kelly, Jesse Plemons and Aimee Teegarden also star.