Frank Irving, bow-oarsman of the Garford University Eight, is depended upon to win the annual rowing contest for his alma-mater. Irving is in love with Muriel, the pretty daughter of the professor of mathematics, but the professor doesn't look upon the athlete with much favor, particularly as he has fallen behind in his studies. The professor speaks to him about his shortcomings and the oarsman endeavors to make up for his past remissness. Another student, who has also been behind in his studies, is Ralph Davis, a young man of rather dissipated habits, who is an unsuccessful suitor for Muriel's hand. Realizing that Irving has won her affections, he hates him accordingly. Just before an important examination is to be held, it is discovered that someone has tampered with the professor's papers. Circumstantial evidence points to Irving, so much so that he is expelled from college. There is no one competent to replace him on the crew, which now faces almost certain defeat at the coming race. On the day of the race, however, Muriel discovers a clue and succeeds in establishing Irving's innocence and in proving that Davis is the guilty man. Word is sent to Irving who, despite numerous difficulties that greatly delay him, arrives just in time to take his place in the boat and win the race for his college.