Ep 7. New Oakland
- July 28, 2020
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6.8 (82)
In season 5 episode 7 of Last Chance U titled "New Oakland," viewers follow the Laney College Eagles as they prepare for their final regular-season game against City College of San Francisco. With only one loss under their belt, the Eagles are well on their way to securing a spot in the playoffs. However, tensions are high as the team receives a new addition, quarterback Jaiden Cunningham.
Cunningham, a highly-touted transfer from another community college, throws a wrench in the team's dynamic. He struggles to fit in with the other players and clashes with Coach Barnes over his playing time. As the Eagles' success hangs in the balance, Barnes must balance the needs of his team with the pressure to win games.
Meanwhile, the episode dives deeper into the personal lives of some of the players. Defensive lineman Moa Ali'iaga shares his struggles with his brother's cancer diagnosis and how it's affected his performance on the field. Wide receiver Anthony "AJ" Ratto opens up about his rough past and how football has given him a sense of purpose.
As the Eagles prepare for their final game, the pressure rises. The episode culminates in an intense showdown between Laney College and City College of San Francisco, where both teams fight tooth and nail for a spot in the playoffs. With emotions running high and the stakes higher, viewers are taken on a thrilling ride to discover the fate of the Laney College Eagles.
"New Oakland" provides an in-depth look at the challenges faced by junior college football teams and the student-athletes who compete at that level. Through personal interviews and intense game footage, viewers witness the highs and lows of Laney College's season, including the struggles of adapting to a new quarterback and the emotional toll of personal hardships. With a focus on the players' stories, "New Oakland" is a compelling and emotional addition to an already thrilling season of Last Chance U.