The Grambling State football team and marching band prepare for homecoming. Also, Eva hopes to make the drumline; and quarterback Bruce tries to overcome a knee injury.
Shunnie's quest for musical stardom takes a blow when a radio program director questions the content of her songs. Meanwhile, Blue is served with an eviction notice; and Eva's poor grades threaten her scholarship.
A grand-scale drum battle ensues in the school yard when Eva challenges Shunnie to a musical duel. Elsewhere, Bruce and his family return to their ravaged home in post-Katrina New Orleans.
With a week to go before the Bayou Classic, Bruce presides over a party at a club. Later, Eva misses the band bus to the event.