Ep 1. Ernie's Last Quarter

The episode "Ernie's Last Quarter" marks the beginning of the third season of the renowned football comedy-drama series, 1st & Ten. Set in the high-stakes world of American football, the show centers around the California Bulls, a professional football team, and the off-field antics and drama that unfold within the team.

In this episode, the California Bulls find themselves in a state of upheaval as they prepare for their upcoming season. With tensions running high and unexpected changes to the team dynamic, the players and staff must navigate through a series of challenges and personal struggles.

As the episode begins, we are introduced to Ernie Denardo (played by Delta Burke), the confident and ambitious owner of the California Bulls. Ernie, known for her no-nonsense attitude and savvy business decisions, faces a tough ultimatum from the greedy big shots of the league. They demand that she sells the team to a billionaire owner who plans to relocate the franchise to another city.

Ernie, determined to protect the team and the legacy it holds in California, finds herself in a race against time to save the Bulls. She orchestrates a daring plan to secure the necessary funds and resources to prevent the team from being uprooted. This puts her directly at odds with the powerful figures who are eagerly waiting for her to fail.

Meanwhile, on the field, the Bulls' head coach, Dave Riley (played by Reed Birney), faces his own set of challenges. With a new group of talented but inexperienced rookies joining the team, Dave must find a way to mold them into a cohesive unit capable of winning games. Throughout the episode, he faces an uphill battle to earn the respect and trust of the rookies, all while dealing with his own personal issues.

In addition to the tumultuous circumstances off the field, relationships among the players and staff become strained. Old rivalries resurface, and hidden secrets threaten to disrupt the team's unity. The episode delves into the complex dynamics between the athletes, showcasing their individual struggles with identity, family, and the pressure to perform.

As the Bulls prepare for their first game of the season, the tension reaches its peak. The fate of the team hangs in the balance, and every player and staff member must confront their own demons if they are to overcome the challenges ahead.

"Ernie's Last Quarter" sets the stage for a gripping new season of 1st & Ten, tackling themes of teamwork, determination, and the fight for what is right. Viewers will be captivated by the intense drama both on and off the football field, as the California Bulls strive to preserve their place in the game and triumph against the odds.

Note: The show 1st & Ten originally aired from 1984 to 1991 and consisted of seven seasons. The series was known for its mix of comedy and drama, offering a unique perspective on the world of professional football.