‘Friday Night time Lights’ crushes, ranked

It has been greater than 15 years since Friday Night time Lights the collection blessed us with its clear-eyed, full-hearted glory. The five-season drama from creator Peter Berg gave us iconic one-liners like “Texas ceaselessly” and gorgeous cinematography that turned as a lot part of the present’s cloth as soccer and good mates livin’ massive.

However in fact, FNL would not be the indelible leisure milestone it is now considered with out some really gorgeous performances. It is no straightforward process to flesh out each character on this type of ensemble, not to mention to do it with effort and empathy. And remarkably, most of FNL‘s lead characters are crushes…which is why we determined to rank a minimum of 35 of them.

Whether or not you are a diehard for Tim Riggins or Vince Howard Eternally, FNL actually fed its viewers over 5 seasons. Come for the soccer, in the event you’re Buddy Garrity or one thing, however keep for the vibes.

35. Joe McCoy

Man, we thought Buddy Garrity was annoying, after which alongside got here super-booster Joe McCoy (D. W. Moffett), a wealthy a-hole helicopter dad who goes so far as bribing Coach Eric Taylor to make his son QB1. Cloudy eyes and an empty coronary heart.

Professionals: V good home.

Cons: Manipulative, controlling, abusive. Massive nope from us.

34. Mac McGill

Mac (Blue Deckert) is truthfully not a crush however he is within the present lots so it felt dutiful to incorporate. Sorry you misplaced the top coach job to Eric Taylor, buddy, however you possibly can see why.

Professionals: Possibly employed? Who is aware of.

Cons: Confirmed racist.

33. Buddy Garrity

Buddy Garrity (Brad Leland), Dillons HBIC (Head Booster in Cost) is all up within the enterprise of highschool soccer, one thing that he was a part of roughly 98374927 years in the past.

Professionals: Nice pronunciation of “Lyla,” loves bumper automobiles, helps Santiago get again on his toes after juvie.

Cons: Cheats on his spouse Pam, loses Lyla’s school fund, is annoying.

32. Derek Bishop

Julie clearly has a factor for educators within the collection. First there was that prime faculty English trainer, and later she falls for Derek Bishop (Gil McKinney), a married school TA with whom she has an affair (though he was hella cocky about soccer after they met at a celebration). Derek, dude, do not sleep with a pupil and do not cheat in your spouse!

Professionals: Sorry to this man, cannot consider any.

Cons: Cheats on his spouse, crosses pupil/TA boundaries.

31. Wade Aikman

Nothing flaunts J.D. McCoy’s privilege fairly like bringing on his personal non-public coach. Wade (Drew Waters) needed to know he was working for some Grade A douchebags, however he stood by and let the chips fall when his boss bought Coach fired.

Professionals: Possibly that is all an eat-the-rich lengthy con?

Cons: Works for the worst folks ever to set foot in Dillon

30. Noah Barnett

Keep in mind the recent younger English trainer at Dillon Excessive who Julie began hanging out with? If not, it is most likely as a result of the character — performed by Austin Nichols — solely had a brief two-episode stint in Season 2 earlier than Tami laid into him for getting a little too near her daughter.

Professionals: Hopefully he is at the least well-read.

Cons: Clearly oversteps some pupil/trainer boundaries.

29. Julie Taylor

Let Matt stay Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUniversal through Getty Photographs

It is merciless that the universe sought to stability the awesomeness of Coach and Tami Taylor with their frankly atrocious daughter. Raised in a house surrounded by love and empathy, Julie (Aimee Teegarden) grew as much as be, fairly merely, the worst. Even years of relationship Matt Saracen did not make her higher, and that’s fairly damning.

Professionals: Scorching, cool dad and mom.

Cons: The worst.

28. Angela Collette

Sadly the least explored of the highly effective Collette ladies, Tyra and Mindy’s mom Angela (Dana Wheeler-Nicholson) is usually outlined by her relationships with males.

Professionals: She appears good.

Cons: Manipulated by the patriarchy! Had an affair with Buddy Garrity. 🙁

27. Billy Riggins

Derek Phillips as Coach Billy RIggins . Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBC / NBCU PHOTO BANK through Getty Photographs

Tim’s older brother Billy (Derek Phillips) struggled to develop up, however we could not assist feeling for him alongside his journey. By collection’ finish he is a proud husband and father who additionally let Tim go to jail for him.

Professionals: Effectively-intentioned.

Cons: Horrible affect on Tim, has made so many unhealthy choices.

26. Jackie Miller

For many who’ve understandably blocked Jackie (Brooke Langton) from reminiscence, she was one of many worst crushes (and neighbors) of all time. After she and her son Bo (who guidelines as compared) moved subsequent door to Tim, Tim began spending time with them and finally fell for her. What did she do in response? She attached with our fragile #33, broke it off due to the age distinction, then bought with Tim’s brother BILLY. The nerve.

Professionals: Has a son who would not utterly suck.

Cons: Breaks hearts, drives a wedge between brothers, tense neighbor.

25. J.D. McCoy

Jeremy Sumpter as J.D. McCoy, ugh. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBC / NBCU PHOTO BANK through Getty Photographs

Simply because Smash graduated did not imply the Panthers had been clamoring for a brand new cocksure wunderkind. J.D. McCoy (Jeremy Sumpter) might have the makings of a star QB, however he is bought lots to study respect.

Professionals: Performed by licensed early-aughts hunk Jeremy Sumptor.

Cons: Loads of them stem from his terrible dad, however the distinction between J.D. and Voodoo’s unhealthy attitudes is cash and energy (see beneath).

24. Ray “Voodoo” Tatum

One more participant who feels entitled due to his means, a case not helped by Buddy Garrity displaying up fangirling at this man’s door. Voodoo (Aldis Hodge) is not completely happy to be in Texas (his household was displaced by Hurricane Katrina), and takes it out on the Panthers by being a rogue participant and impolite teammate.

Professionals: Principally quiet.

Cons: When not quiet might probably have an outburst that results in Panthers having to forfeit a recreation.

23. Glenn Reed

We beloved that Tami had a piece good friend to vent to after she got here again from maternity go away, however Glenn (Steven Walters), please do not mess with mother and pop.

Professionals: Stable listener, good with children.

Cons: Makes poor completely happy hour selections.

22. The Swede

Keep in mind in Season 2 when Julie briefly gave up on Saracen for “The Swede” (Alejandro Rose-Garcia), that piece of eye sweet on the pool? A detour completely nobody wanted!

Professionals: Can most likely save your life in the event you’re drowning. Good summer time crush.

Cons: Events an excessive amount of and crucially is not serious about a critical relationship.

21. Cheryl Sproles

It ought to have been lots weirder to residents of Dillon and the broader viewing public that Tim Riggins was absolutely sexing married grownup ladies on this present, however we had been blinded by grownup man Taylor Kitsch (and all these ~lights). Anyway, Becky’s mother (Alicia Witt) had it goin’ on.

Professionals: Laborious employee who loves her daughter and needs her to have a greater life.

Cons: Slightly impulsive, particularly relating to sleeping with and/or kicking out Tim Riggins.

20. Erin Road

FNL took a giant swing within the later seasons by pairing Day 1 Dillon Panther Jason Road with an unknown waitress with whom he had a one-night stand. However Erin (Tamara Jolaine) brings shocking maturity and depth to the present, finally resulting in a satisfying arc for Road, too.

Professionals: Sensible — wasn’t certain about having a baby when she did and made the robust name to maneuver residence so she might assist him.

Cons: Type of a rando.

19. Mindy Collette-Riggins

Tyra’s older sister Mindy (Stacey Oristano) began out as a 2D background character, however in true FNL trend turns into a posh and compelling character. Folks tried to disgrace her career, however she holds her head excessive with admirable confidence and charisma.

Professionals: Confident, will lend a serving to hand.

Cons: A little bit of a hothead.

18. Becky Sproles

Madison Burge as Becky Sproles. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBC / NBCU PHOTO BANK through Getty Photographs

Becky (Madison Burge) had the misfortune of being launched as a recurring nuisance that Time cannot shake, however all through Seasons Four and 5 grows into the form of depth we anticipate from FNL characters. She chooses Luke regardless of being repeatedly drawn to Tim, displaying a degree of maturity the writers of this piece nonetheless have but to attain.

Professionals: Would not take shit from folks, goes after what she needs.

Cons: Takes some warming as much as. So much, truly.

17. Chris Kennedy

Have a look at that hair. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

Matt Czuchry? Nice crush. Matt Czuchry enjoying a DJ on a Christian radio station in Texas? Eh. He is no Logan Huntzberger, that’s for certain.

Professionals: Agreeable, respectful, good radio voice.

Cons: Not Tim Riggins.

16. Carlotta Alonso

Miss you, Carlotta. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

Matt Saracen’s world bought a bit brighter when Carlotta (Daniella Alonso), a ridiculously attractive live-in caregiver, got here to assistance from his grandma, Lorraine. Although their relationship began out a bit tense, Carlotta and Matt loosened up, ended up relationship, and he finally misplaced his virginity to her earlier than she swiftly moved again to Guatemala to be together with her household. NBD!

Professionals: Empathetic, mild, cares about Grandma Lorraine.

Cons: Moved to Guatemala! 🙁

15. Hastings Ruckle

Hey, sir. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

Full disclosure: We needed to Google this man. We kind of forgot that Hastings Ruckle was recruited by ol’ Buddy Garrity in Season 5 and he goes on to assist the East Dillon Lions win State.

Professionals: IDK, looks like a promising crush based mostly solely off the truth that he is performed by actor Gray Damon.

Cons: Deeply unmemorable, title is sizzling however sounds pretend.

14. Smash Williams

Gaius Charles giving a traditional Brian “Smash” Williams look Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

FNL was at all times wonderful at character progress, which is why Smash (Gaius Charles), the devilishly charming however cocky-as-hell working again from the pilot was a lovable good friend and mentor by his exit in Season 3.

Professionals: Loves his household and (typically) his teammates, 10/10 smile.

Cons: Monumental ego earlier than it deflates a bit of, slept with Tyra simply to mess with Tim.

13. Landry Clarke

Jesse Plemons attempting to not get arrested for homicide, most likely. Credit score: Nbc-Television / Kobal / Shutterstock

Dillon historians will marvel why so many individuals slept on “Lance” (Jesse Plemons), however we knew this man had one thing particular from the start.

Professionals: Will actually kill for you.

Cons: He truly did. This man is a assassin.

12. Lyla Garrity

It’s onerous to stay as much as the legend when you’re principally a strolling dream crush archetype, and poor Lyla (Minka Kelly) had her struggles with being the girl everybody noticed her as whereas understanding the woman she really was. 

Professionals: A textbook crush! Lovely, sensible, sort.

Cons: Human and subsequently flawed!

11. Jason Road

Road (Scott Porter) begins a difficult journey within the pilot however strives to answer every part life throws at him with gratitude and charm. He has each proper to really feel remorse and anger — see additionally: Mexico — however his need to be a superb man and stay an sincere life normally win out.

Professionals: Extraordinarily sort and respectful, good Texas boi.

Cons: Typically indignant and unhappy, however like, we get it!

10. Santiago Herrera

We watched Santiago (Benjamin Ciaramello) show charming energy as he transitioned from life in juvie to life with Buddy Garrity and the Dillon Panthers. We solely want we bought to observe him… do actually anything after Season 2. He deserved a greater ending!

Professionals: Hardworking, visually gorgeous man, has completely nailed the entire quiet brooding factor.

Cons: Straight-up disappeared from our lives.

9. Luke Cafferty

Season Four naysayers thought Luke (Matt Lauria) was simply Matt Saracen redux, which even when it had been true just isn’t a foul factor! Luke is a tough employee and group participant who handles the transfer to East Dillon like a champ.

Professionals: Adaptable and mature, even when it terrifies him.

Cons: His dad and mom will be… lots.

8. Vince Howard

Lil MBJ :’) Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

Would seasons Four and 5 have been almost nearly as good as they had been with out Vince Howard? Completely not. We watched the dreamy East Dillon Lions QB, performed by *the* Michael B. Jordan, attempt to flip his life round whereas carrying a whole-ass group and supporting his dad and mom. He didn’t at all times make the very best selections, however he was a teen! He labored onerous to take care of his family members and ought to be protected in any respect prices.

Professionals: Has a complete lot of coronary heart, reveals up for the folks in his life, is performed by younger Michael B. Jordan (What extra do you want?!)

Cons: Occasional ego points. Vince’s residence life is turbulent, to say the least. It isn’t his fault, however it’s lots to tackle with a crush.

7. Jess Merriweather

Jurnee Smollett because the bubbly Jess Merriweather. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBC / NBCU PHOTO BANK through Getty Photographs

Jurnee Smollett’s FNL character, Jess Merriweather, was an actual breath of recent air. She joined the present when East Dillon was launched in Season 4, went on so far Landry and finally Vince, and introduced a giant persona and one hell of a piece ethic to every part she did. When she wasn’t serving to her dad out at his restaurant or watching her youthful brothers, Jess tried to study all she might about teaching. She shadowed Coach Taylor in hopes of sooner or later turning into a coach herself, and though she strikes to Dallas on the finish of the collection she didn’t let her dream die.

Professionals: Is aware of what she needs and goes after it, brings out the very best in Vince.

Cons: Might be cussed and hotheaded, like Vince! Additionally moved to Dallas. 🙁

6. Matt Saracen

Zach Gilford nearly as good boy Matt Saracen. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

They don’t make crushes like good ol’ QB1 anymore. Delicate-spoken, perseverant Matt (Zach Gilford) went from comfortably warming the bench to main the Panthers and moving into school, residing out desires he as soon as didn’t even dare to have.

Professionals: Simply the sweetest boy, fairly presumably the very best grandson of all time.

Cons: Can’t recover from Julie FREAKING Taylor.

5. Tyra Collette

Adrianne Palicki killed (nearly actually!) as Tyra Collette. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUNIVERSAL VIA GETTY IMAGES

Tyra (Adrianne Palicki) embodies Friday Night time Lights’ character growth at its greatest. To say this teen goes by lots over the course of the collection could be an understatement, however she survives and emerges from every problem with extra grit, readability, self respect, and larger desires.

Professionals: Sensible, sturdy, impartial woman!

Cons: Nonetheless BFFs together with her sizzling sizzling ex.

4. Dallas Tinker

By no means underestimate the facility of an unproblematic fave. Dallas Tinker (LaMarcus Tinker) a.okay.a. Tink is a person of few phrases who largely minds his personal enterprise after which does stuff like assist Luke on his dad and mom’ farm. Your crush would by no means.

Professionals: At all times lifts up his mates.

Cons: We do not actually know him that nicely, which might be why he flew previous so many extra established characters. The present ended earlier than we noticed his flaws and for that we’re grateful.

3. Tim Riggins

Taylor Kitsch’s hair is sort of unfair. Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBCU PHOTO BANK / NBCUniversal through Getty Photographs

The crush heard ‘spherical Texas and past; Tim Riggins (Taylor Kitsch) is our favourite 28-year-old teen.

Professionals: Loyal, stoic, swoon-worthy hair, ugh-hot-ugh.

Cons: Verify if he has your mother’s quantity in his cellphone.

2. Coach Eric Taylor

Kyle Chandler, King of Clear Eyes. Credit score: Nbc-Television / Kobal / Shutterstock

Scorching dad, caring coach, and all-around get up human. Eric Taylor (Kyle Chandler) was the Ted Lasso of the early-2000s, a time when TV masculinity wasn’t fairly prepared for uncooked vulnerability and compassion, however undeniably paving the way in which for the boys who would comply with.

Professionals: King of clear eyes. Has a full coronary heart. Would not lose (largely).

Cons: He could be a bit egocentric, as Tami fairly factors out. Life is hard on the prime however that is no motive to steamroll your unbelievable spouse!

1. Tami Taylor

Connie Britton slaying on “Friday Night time Lights.” Credit score: BILL RECORDS / NBC PHOTO BANK / NBCUniversal through Getty Photographs

Tami Taylor (Connie Britton) does all of it. She selflessly balances the position of supportive spouse, caring mom, and counselor/volleyball coach/principal/throughout mentor whereas nonetheless in some way discovering time for a glass of wine.

Professionals: Endlessly loving, empathetic, and powerful. Her hair is a nationwide treasure.

Cons: None. :’)

Friday Night time Lights is now streaming on Netflix.

Need extra Ranked? We have you coated:

This text was initially revealed in October 2021 and up to date in April 2022.