Wally is dismayed to learn that he did not get the sports scholarship to State University that he and his family were sure he was going to get. Regardless, Ward and June vow that that will not jeopardize him going to college as they will provide the financial support required. Somewhat of a surprise to them all is that Lumpy does receive one of the sports scholarships to State. Upon reflection, Wally understands why he wouldn't have got one while Lumpy did, at least from an athletic perspective. Wally is truly happy for Lumpy and wants to congratulate him by throwing him a party. Lumpy, for perhaps the first time in his life, receives much adulation, even from girls who never would have given him the time of day before, this adulation which he and his father are enjoying. But halfway through the party, after speaking to his father on the telephone, Lumpy becomes sullen as he learns he didn't get the scholarship because he flunked one of his high school classes. Lumpy has to decide what to do, which is not helped by his blow-hard father, who will do anything to show the Rutherford superiority to the world. A little outside help may provide both Rutherford men with a boost in the matter.
—Huggo