(Name of Project)

by(Name of First Writer)

(Based on, If Any)

Revisions by(Names of Subsequent Writers,in Order of Work Performed)

Current Revisions by(Current Writer, date)

Name (of company, if applicable)AddressPhone Number

IN THE GAME

By

Renee Crotts

Renee Crotts10 Rhodes TerraceNeptune, NJ 07753Cell 732-310-8542Home 732-922-6286

Reneemc44@yahoo.com

EXT. OUTSIDE TOWNHOUSE DEVELOPMENT - MORNING

Its fall, the color of the leaves are turning. NICKY REYNOLDS, 35, attractive, jogs through the neighborhood of her townhouse development in the NJ suburbs by the shore.

HER POV

A football on the grass of a neighbors lawn

Blow-up Giants football characters on yards

Blow-up Jets football character on another yard

Giants bumper sticker on several cars

Eagles sticker on bumper and window of another car

A parked car with a small trailer attached. Painted on the trailer are Giants logos on both sides, and Dedicated to the excellence of tailgating, on the back.

EXT. NICKYS TOWNHOUSE

Nicky picks up the paper on the way into her townhouse.

INT. KITCHEN - MORNING

Nicky is showered and sitting at the kitchen table, reading the paper and drinking coffee. She tosses the sports section without looking at it onto the floor--the cover is about the most recent pre-season pro-football game. Her small dog picks up the paper and starts to shred it. She continues to read the paper.

INT. FRONT DOOR - MORNING, LATER

Nicky, dressed professionally, pets her dog, shuts door and walks to her car.

INT. NICKYS CAR - MORNING

Nicky drives out of the development and along strip malls and housing developments on her way to work. She turns on the radio station and channel surfs. The first station is two on-air personalities talking about Sundays pre-season football game.

2.

She changes the station. Again, two on-air personalities talk about the game. She changes the station, and again, on-air personalities talk about the game.

NICKY(Frustrated)

Shut up already.

She turns off the radio.

EXT. OFFICE PARKING LOT - MORNING

Nicky parks and gets out of her car.

HER POV

Black luxury car with bird poop on it. CU on bird poop.

She walks by car and smiles.

EXT. BUILDING - MORNING

Nicky walks up to JACK MCGOWAN, a man in his late fifties, rough around the edges and street smart.

NICKY Hey, my day is off to a good start, a bird crapped on your car.

JACKDammit. I just washed it. Bastards.

A bird craps on Jacks face.

JACK (CONT'D)Oh shit! I dont believe it..

Jack wipes his face. Nicky laughs.

NICKYOh, this is a great day.

Two men, DON and RALPH approach them.

NICKY (CONT'D)Great, here are your chimney buddies. Hey guys.

Don and Ralph stand with Nicky and Jack.

3.

DON(lights a cigarette)

Hey.

RALPH(smoking, talks to Jack)

Here we go.

JACKShit. Could you believe Feeley missed that kick last night?

RALPHYea, what an asshole. The Giants need to get rid of him.

Nicky rolls her eyes and coughs and goes into building. She walks through hallway and enters office, Public Relations and Marketing.

INT. NICKYS OFFICE - DAY

Nicky is sitting at her computer. Shes on the phone with her best friend SUSAN DEANI, also in her mid-thirties. Nicky is searching marketing jobs.

CU on computer monitor: Monster.com.

NICKYIts only 9:20. Uh.

INT. SENIOR RECREATION ROOM - DAY

Susan is moving chairs from the center of the room to alongside the walls.

SUSANYea, same here. A class is starting in a few minutes. Line-dancing. Yeeha.

SPLIT SCREEN WITH NICKY AND SUSAN ON PHONE.

NICKYOh, fun. Im jealous. Only 7 and a half more hours to go. God.

SUSANWant to meet for lunch later?

4.

NICKYI cant. I have a meeting.

SUSANOk.

INT. OFFICE - DAY

Nicky looks at job listing on the computer screen.

NICKYOooh. This looks interesting.

INT. SENIOR REC ROOM

SUSANAre you job hunting again?

INT. OFFICE

NICKYThis looks good. I have to apply to this.

INT. SENIOR REC ROOM

SUSANIll let you go. Line-dance class is starting in a few minutes anyway.

Two men and three women in their sixties and dressed for line dancing stroll into the room.

INT. OFFICE

NICKY Oh, fun. You better git then. Bye

INT. OFFICE - AN HOUR LATER

Nickys still on the phone talking to a headhunter.

NICKY Im looking for more opportunity for growth. Sure. Ill e-mail my resume.

5.

Jack peers into the office. Nicky is startled and covers up the phone receiver with her hand.

NICKY (CONT'D)Ok. Thank you. Please call me if you know of any opportunities. Bye.

Nicky hangs up the phone.

JACKYou want a football ticket this week?

NICKYHuh? A ticket, for a game?

JACKNo, idiot. To bet on.

Nicky throws a booklet at him.

NICKYGet out of here.

JACK(walking away)

Dumb blonde.

NICKYYea, well...youre a dumb...chain smoking...black lung...old...dummy.

INT. NICKYS CAR - DAY

Nicky is driving, she passes a football field.

HER POV

A high school football team is practicing.

Nicky stops at a traffic light.

HER POV

A man and a little girl are on a playground. Hes pushing her on a swing.

6.

INT. GIRL'S BEDROOM - DAY

Nicky, age five and wearing a princess outfit, is sitting at a table. A stuffed bear is seated on one chair, a doll on another. A childs tea set is laid out on the table. Nicky pretends to drink tea from her cup.

YOUNG NICKYWould you like more tea, sir bear? How about you Princess?

She pours pretend tea for them and sips tea.

YOUNG NICKY (CONT'D)Hows the tea, princess? Is it delicious?

She sips more tea and then begins to color a picture on the table.

INT. TV ROOM - DAY

Nicky runs into the room holding her picture. Her DAD is engrossed in the football game on TV. Hes wearing a t-shirtand boxer shorts. Beer cans and potato chips are on the table.

NICKYDaddy, will you play with me?

Dad never averts his eyes from the TV screen. He's agitated as Nicky moves in closer in front of the TV.

DADNot now, honeyOh, damn! You call that a run?

NICKYPlease daddy. You promised you would play with me. Look at my picture.

DADBeautiful, honey. Oh, come on, come on, come on.DAMN!!!

Nicky moves unintentionally more in front of the TV screen, blocking dads view.

NICKYDaddy, will you color with me?

7.

DADCome on, come on.!I can't see the screen, honey. Move, move.

NICKYDaddy

DADNick please.Not now.I'm watching the game.

"I'm watching the game," continues to echo while little Nicky spins into darkness.

INT. NICKYS CAR

Nicky hears honking. Its a green light, she proceeds to go.

EXT. GROCERY STORE PARKING LOT - DAY

Nicky drives around the crowded parking lot. Cars cut her off and pull out in front of her, pedestrians with carts walk slowly and block her way. She starts to pull into a parking space but is cut off by a car packed with guys wearing sports caps and sweatshirts. Theyre laughing. Sports decals are on the cars window.

INT. GROCERY STORE - DAY

Nicky walks through the aisles.

HER POV

Close-ups and pans of football themed items -- cereal boxes, hats, gloves, sweatshirts, bowls, cups and other memorabilia, which are scattered throughout aisles.

Nickys cell phone rings. She answers the phone.

NICKYHey, Suzie.

INT. SENIOR LIVING GAME ROOM - DAY

Susan is finishing up activities with seniors.

8.

SUSANHi Nick. Are we still going out tonight?

(focuses attention on an elderly lady)

Thanks Glenda...please put the bingo cards on the counter.

GLENDA, a woman in her 70s, slowly collects bingo cards on table.

INT. SUPERMARKET AISLE

As Nicky is talking, the aisle is blocked by people with their carts. She waits patiently, but they dont move out of her way.

NICKY(Agitated and despondent)

Yea. I guess.

SUSANOh, come on. Jen, says it should be a good crowd. It's 80's night.

NICKYOK. Theres nothing else to do anyway.

SUSANIll pick you up at 9:30.

NICKYOk. See you later.

Nicky hangs up phone. She swerves to avoid old mans cart and bangs her cart into a bottled juice display. The bottles have pictures of a football player on them. They fall all over the floor. She stands there looking at the bottles.

INT. CROWDED BAR - EVENING

Nicky and Susan are standing at the bar surrounded by nothing but young twenty-somethings.

NICKYAre you kidding me?I don't see anyone our age.

SUSANCome on, it's not that bad.

9.

NICKYNot that bad? We're in romper room.

SUSANYea, it is that bad.

NICKYGod, I feel so old.

SUSANMe too.

NICKYWhen did we get so old?

SUSANI dont know. Lets get out of here.

NICKYIm with you sister.

INT. CASUAL BAR - EVENING

Nicky and Susan walk through a bar with people in their 30s and up. A live band is playing rock music.

NICKYMuch better.

SUSANYea, this is much better.

Nicky and Susan stand next to the bar which is surrounded above by TV screens. NFL Access is on. THREE MEN next to Nicky and Susan are discussing the commentaries.

MAN AT BAR 1I hate the Colts man.

MAN AT BAR 2Enough with Peyton.

MAN AT BAR 1Lets see what Coughlin can pull off. Elis under a lot of pressure.

Nicky watches the men and takes in the scene.

HER POV

10.

CU of a flier on the bar: Football Sunday. All you can eat buffet. Beer specials $5 Domestic Pitchers $6 Import pitchers

Other groups of men also appear to be talking about football and the upcoming game.

INT. BAR STAGE - EVENING

The bands set is finished and the music stops.

BAND SINGERSo, how about those Giants?

The people in the bar cheer.

BAND SINGER (CONT'D)Yea. Remember to check out football Sunday and Monday night specials here. Nothing but good times. See you back here in a few.

The singer walks off the floor. Music comes back on.

INT. CASUAL BAR - LATER

Nicky and Susan stand at the bar drinking beers and just looking around. The men are all talking to each other. Some couples and groups are scattered around, but no one notices Nicky and Susan.

NICKYIm tired. You into this?

SUSANNot really.

NICKYMy feet hurt.

SUSANYea, me too.

NICKYI want to go home.

SUSANMe too. Lets go.

Nicky and Susan walk towards the exit.

11.

NICKYWell, that was fun.

SUSANYep. A blast.

NICKYGuess Ill watch the movie I rented, eat some nachos and get fatter.

SUSANSound good.

NICKY You know, it seems the only men we meet are just interested in football.

SUSANPretty much.

INT. BAR LOBBY - EVENING

Nicky and Susan walk through the bar lobby to the exit.

NICKYs POV

CU of flier on bulletin board: Football Sunday Blitz. All you can eat buffet and wings.

INT. NICKYS HOME OFFICE - MORNING

Nicky, is sitting in front of her computer. Her hair's disheveled, she's in her pajamas and drinking coffee. CU of the monitor, it's Match.com. She's talking to herself. Her dog sits next to her.

NICKYOk, let's see.

Nicky grimmaces, shakes her head, pretends to vomit. Continues to open e-mails.

NICKY (CONT'D)Yech. Oh, no.Hmmm. Sportsfan68. Major Giants and Yankees fan.Like going to games.Well, I don't like going to games, how bout that?

12.

She opens another e-mail.

NICKY (CONT'D)Nice-guy-for-you. Die hard Giants fan. (beat) Die before I date you,how bout that?

Nicky clicks on another e-mail.

CU screen -- ugly guy wearing a Giants cap and big, goofy grin.

CU Nicky, startled, she jumps back. She continues to read the monitor.

NICKY (CONT'D)JustSayYes. Giants rule. Favorite things to do--watch sports.Uh, just say, I dont think so.

Nicky, sighs, shuts off computer.

EXT. FRONT PORCH OF TOWNHOUSE - MORNING

Nicky walks outside in her pajamas and grabs the newspaper.

HER POV

A man in his 30's on a neighboring front lawn throws a football with his young son, while pregnant mom watches and cheers them on. Nicky waves. They wave back.

NICKY(sarcastically)

How sweet.

INT. RESTAURANT IN A MALL - AFTERNOON

Nicky and Susan are seated at a table eating lunch. They spot a handsome MAN seated alone. They eye each other and watch him.

NICKYHhmmmnice.Maybe this is our lucky day.

A polished WOMAN walks in and sits down with the man.

NICKY (CONT'D)Damn...

13.

SUSANDouble damn.

NICKYWhy cant we meet guys like that?

SUSANBecause there arent any around. Did you know that there are at least three single women for every single man?

NICKYThe odds are that bad?

SUSANMaybe worse around here.

CU on man and woman talking.

MAN Did you see that run?

WOMANYeah, that was amazing. But how about OHara? He made a huge, freakin hole for him. You could drive a truck through that.

MANYou know, if the Giants could just play like that every week, nobody would beat them this year.

WOMANWell, maybe the Colts. PeytonManning is having a hell of a year.

MANYoure right. Maybe his brother Eli can do the same for the Giants down the road.

Nicky and Susan look at each other, puzzled.

NICKYTell me that did not just happen. Prince Charming is sitting right next to us, and he turns into Count Sportsula, the dark prince of touchdowns. I give up.

14.

SUSANWhat did she say?

NICKYI dont know, something about the black hole or something.

SUSANI have no idea what they said. They could be talking Chinese.

INT. BATHROOM - DAY

Nicky is washing her hands and the lady walks in. The woman primps in the mirror and puts on lipstick. Nicky watches her.

NICKYExcuse me.

WOMANYea?

NICKYI couldnt help but overhear some of your conversation...

WOMAN (Primping in mirror)

Hmm.mmm

NICKYWell..I heard you talking about football...I think it was football, and you seem to know a lot about it...I mean, are you really into football?

WOMANOh, hell no. Boring.

NICKYReally? But, you sounded like youre into it.

WOMANI know. Isnt that cool? I have him so convinced. Idiot.

NICKYSo, you dont like football..but, how do you know so much about it?

15.

WOMANWhat a pain in the ass. I watched games and the sports channels... read the sports pages and books. I learned the players on their websites. And I never miss Matt Dawsons column in the Star Journal.

NICKYWow. That would be overwhelming for me. I dont understand any of it.

WOMANYea, but it gets easier. Hey, a womans got to do, what a womans got to do. I wanted to date this guy, so if you cant beat em, join em.

NICKYHmmm.

WOMANLook, if I can do it, you can do it. Trust me. Good Luck. Go Giants! (beat) Like I care.

Woman exits bathroom.

INT. SHOPPING MALL - DAY

Nicky and Susan leave the restaurant and enter the mall. As they walk out of the door, a toy football hits Nicky in the face. She sees a BOY TODDLER in a stroller wearing a Jets shirt laughing. She kicks the football away while the MOTHER isnt looking. He begins to cry. His loud wail continues as they walk through the mall.

NICKYYoure not going to believe what I just found out in the bathroom.That womans a fake. She doesnt like sports. She fakes it.Damn, shes good.

SUSANNo way. She told you that?

NICKYYea. Thats what we have to do.

16.

SUSANWhat?

NICKYWe have to learn sports, or were never going to find a man.

SUSAN Eeew.

NICKYI know. Gross, right? But, I bet thats why were still single. We want a man whos not into sports. Thats so not happening.

SUSAN Do they even exist?

NICKYNo. I think its even been scientifically proven.

SUSANWe cant learn football.

NICKYI think we can do this. It cant be that hard. The beauty is, we just have to fake it.

EXT. SPORTS MEMORABILIA STORE - DAY

Nicky and Susan come across the store. Nicky stops and looks through the window.

INT. SPORTS MEMORABILIA STORE - DAY

Nicky enters the store pulling Susan in with her. Nicky looks around, overwhelmed by all the sports items everywhere.

NICKYOh my god, look at all this stuff.

SUSANReally.

Nicky peruses the shelves. She picks up a Jeremy Shockey bobble-head, and looks at it.

17.

NICKY Oh, he's kinda cute, rugged.

An exuberant SALESMAN approaches. Hes wearing a referee looking store uniform.

SALESMANSo, you're a Shockey fan?

NICKYOh, nothis is a football guy.

SALESMANYea, it's Shockey.

NICKYThis is a football. Come on, that much I know.

SALESMANYes, mam. He's holding a football. That's Jeremy Shockey, the Giants tight end, played a great season.

NICKYYes.yes, this is Jeremy Shockey, of the Giants...football team.

SUSANYea, duh, Jeremy.

NICKYJeremy's one of my favorite players, obviously. Otherwise, I wouldn't be holding himbecause I want to buy him, and let him bobble. I'm going to look around, thanks.

Nicky says to Susan under her breath.

NICKY (CONT'D)I thought he said hockey...with a lisp or something.

SUSANMe too. You really buying that bobblehead?

Nicky, shakes the bobblehead, makes the head bobble.

18.

NICKY This is our new good luck charmand he's going to help us meet men. Right?

(to bobblehead) See, he's agreeing with me.

SUSANId rather buy a rabbits foot or cast a spell. We so dont know anything about sports. We didnt even know who Shocker was.

Salesman overhears this, he's peering at them.

SALESMANShockey. Shock-EY.

NICKYRight, Shockey. We get it.

Nicky turns to Susan.

NICKY (CONT'D)(under her breath)

Like were supposed to know.

SUSANYea.

NICKYCome on, we can do this. Well get some women together and well just, learn sports....go to some sports bars and games. Cant be that hard.

SUSANHow do we learn?

NICKYWe start reading the sports pages....watch games.

Susan and Nicky both gag at the thought and shake their heads.

SUSANId rather join a bowling league, or take a mechanics class, or hang out at Home Depot.

19.

NICKYLook, we should learn sports anyway, so we can at least have conversations with men.

SUSANIm becoming a lesbian.

NICKYGo pick out a bobble-head.

SUSAN But I don't want a bobble-head.

NICKYJust pick a bobble-head. Here, take him, hes cute.

Nicky hands Susan a bobble-head.

SUSANNo, I dont like him. Ill pick one.

INT. DEN - DAY

Nicky is sitting on the sofa reading books. Shes reading Get your own damn beer! I'm watching the game: A woman's guide to loving pro football.

CU shots of books on the table.Football, baseball and basketball for dummies; The chicks guide to football: A complete guide to tight ends.

INT. DEN - LATER

Nicky puts the book down and turns on the TV. She has a note pad and pen. She starts to watch a game, gets bored, switches channel to another game. On TV, the commentators are excited by a play. She sarcastically shows excitement. She turns on NFL Access.

CU screen of NFL Access footage.

CU Nicky struggling to listen.

INT. NICE RESTAURANT - EVENING

Nicky and a handsome MAN are sitting at a table. The man is holding her hands.

20.

MAN AT TABLEI think you're great. I always have a fun time with you, Nick.

NICKYMe too. I'm so happy.

MAN AT TABLEYoure special, Nick. I've waited a long time for a woman like you to come into my life. They always say, love finds you when you least expect it.

Nicky's eyes tear.

NICKYI almost gave up on love.

MAN AT TABLEI've always wanted a woman like you. So, perfect.

The man caresses Nickys arms, then touches her face with both his hands.

NICKYYou're perfect.

MAN AT TABLEYou are beautifuljust the right shape, texture.

The man continues to touch Nickys face and arms as if checking a fruit for its ripeness. Nicky looks puzzled.

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - DAY

Far shot of Nicky and her date at the table on a football field. They are surrounded by football players, the stadium is filled. Fans are screaming.

CU on FOOTBALL PLAYER hunched over getting ready to snap.

PLAYERHut one, hut two.

He hands the ball off to Nickys date, still dressed in a suit, but with headgear on.

21.

CU on the football in the dates hands: it's a football sized Nicky with the body of a football, but with her head, arms and legs. She looks petrified and is screaming.

MAN AT TABLECome on Nick, let's do this.

The man tries to throw Nicky, but no one's open. He begins to run with her. Fans cheer them on.

CU shot of Nickys dad in the crowd

DADGo Nick!

CU Nicky

NICKYHelp!!!

The man is tackled. He drops Nicky. Her little football body begins to run on the field, screaming. She's tackled.

CU of Nicky as she is prepared for a kick.

The kicker kicks Nicky and sends her flying in the air towards the field goal.

CU Nicky as she screams.

INT. DEN - LATE AFTERNOON

Nicky wakes up on the sofa, panicked.

NICKYNooo!.

She looks at the TV, a football game is on. The doorbell rings. Nicky goes to the front door.

INT. FRONT DOOR - LATE AFTERNOON

Nicky answers the door and sees Susan.

NICKY I just had the worst nightmare.

Susan walks in.

SUSANWhat happened?

22.

NICKY(disturbed and neurotic)

I was a football. I tasted the dirt and felt the grass and everything. I really had a football body.

SUSAN OK...

NICKY I was studying football, watching sports commentaries. Trying to get a better understanding, trying to be open and relate. But, I just dont get it. I dont get how into it they are.

SUSANYoure wasting your time. Well never understand.

NICKYSo, Im watching, and thinking...I cant believe Im hearing this. This one documentary on...the Seattle Seagulls or something..they were talking about the teams win...Saying stuff like They finished the season to glory...they were smoking ...oh...look out now, the pain train is coming...they bored down like a locomotive. Who writes this crap?

SUSANI cant watch that stuff. I give you credit for trying.

NICKYAs hard as I try...I just dont relate. I really just dont get it. Its like, theyre not even my species.

SUSAN Maybe theyre not.

NICKYAnd they hang on to everything. Like what happened over fifty years ago. Like, they won the Superbowl in 1949...who cares?

23.

(MORE)

Its obsessive. Theyre worse than women. And they think were strange.

SUSANOh, you need to take a break. Put on HBO or Oxygen... or the Shopping Network...something relaxing. Take a Xanax.

NICKYYea, I know.

(beat)Were still having our meeting this week, right?

SUSAN(sarcastically)

Of course, listening to you has me all pumped up, can wait.

INT. BEAUTY SALON - DAY

Nicky enters salon. Shes greeted by the salons owner, PHIL, gay and in his mid 30s. They kiss on both cheeks.

PHILHi beautiful.

NICKYHi handsome. How are you?

PHILOh, Im wonderful now that youre here. Lets get you started. Go back with Charlene, shell wash you, then come by my station, honey, well get you looking gorgeous.

NICKYI know you will.

INT. PHILS STYLING STATION - LATER

Phil cuts Nickys hair.

PHILSo whats new sweetie...dating anyone?

24.

NICKY (CONT'D)

NICKYNope. No such luck.

PHILDont give up honey.

NICKYWell, Im not giving up. But I am resorting to drastic measures.

PHILBecoming a mail order bride?

NICKYNo, come on.

(she whispers)Im starting a womens sports club. I think if I want to meet men, I have to learn sports.

PHILOh, girl, I hear what youre saying. I just met this guy, hes so fine, but hes all about sports.

NICKYA gay man?

PHILOh, hell yea. Gay man are into sports.

NICKYYoure making that up.

PHILNo,Im not. Im totally serious. This guy I dated a couple of years ago, was into the Mets. He broke up with me because the only reason I went to Mets games with him was to check out Mike Piazzas ass.

NICKYI dont know who that is. Well, you know how I feel about sports. But, I dont think Im ever going to find a man unless, I at least, fake liking them.

PHILOh, you are so right honey. Count me in.

25.

INT. NICKYS DEN - DAY

Nicky, Susan, Phil, JACKIE, an attractive, mid-30s black woman and ROSA, mid-30s and Brazilian, are all seated.

NICKYIm so glad youre all here. This is great.

Silent pause. Everyone looks around with blank expressions.

NICKY (CONT'D)OK, well. Why dont we talk about what we know about football. To be honest, I dont know that much, just the names of some teams and what a touchdown is.

SUSANI dont know anything, and dont want to know anything. How is this going to help us meet men? The problem is, we dont like sports.

ROSA(heavy Portuguese accent)

Oh, football is so boring. I dont understand at all. I dont like, honey.

SUSANThere are a million other things Id rather be doing, like shopping. I want to go to the mall, anyone want to go? I need a sweater.

ROSAOh, Ill go baby. Come on, we go.

NICKYCome on you guys. Lets focus.

PHILYes, ladies, lets do this. Well go shopping later. I want to get me a football hottie.

JACKIEIm here because I want to learn. Ive wanted to for awhile, but its intimidating.

26.

NICKYIsnt it?

JACKIE Most of my clients at work are men, and I never can talk to them about sports. Especially now with football season. The guys are always talking with each other, and I feel left out. Its frustrating.

NICKYExactly. Me too. I just always tuned it out. Anything that had to do with football, my mind and ears just shut off.

(Nicky closes her hears with her forefingers, shuts her eyes and shakes her head.)

LalalalalAaaaaaahhhhhh.

JACKIESame here. I never wanted any involvement with football. But, now I feel alienated, like Im culturally ignorant. Hm hm hm. I dont know my own culture. Thats a damn shame.

NICKYSo true. Thats why we have to do this.

SUSANOK. So what do we do?

ROSAOh come on. We go watch football. We dont have to understand. We just go, baby.

JACKIEI think we should know a little first.

Nicky turns on the TV. The Cowboys are playing the San Francisco 49ers.

NICKYLets watch some football on TV for a while.

27.

SUSANOh, good God.

NICKY(sincerely trying to absorb it)

Look, its the cowboy team, and the burgundy and gold team. Whats SF stand for?

PHILI do like watching their big, tight bodies running around.

NICKYSee...they keep stopping. Thats so annoying.

SUSANOK, so what is a first down?

NICKYAll this commentary is so annoying.

JACKIEForty-niners, he just said San Francisco forty-niners. Whats 49 stand for?

INT. DEN - AN HOUR LATER

NICKYAnyone figure out what a first down is yet? Is that when they fall down the first time?

JACKIEMaybe theyre only allowed to fall down so many times.

ROSALook, they just take the ball and go to the end. Thats it baby.

SUSANIm going to hang myself.

PHILI would look hot in a football outfit.

28.

NICKYWhat does the flag down mean?

JACKIEThe other player held his shirt. They must not be allowed to do that.

NICKYYea, maybe.

ROSAI tell you, I dont like watching this. I want to go dancing or go have drinks, have some fun, baby.

NICKYNo, come on.

JACKIEGirl, this isnt getting us anywhere.

NICKYNobody said this was going to be easy. But this is what we have to do.

(beat) Its just a game damit. Were going to do this. Whos with me?

JACKIEIm with you.

PHILMe too.

ROSA AND SUSAN(reluctantly)

Ok.

NICKYLets come up with a game plan and get some more members.

SUSAN, PHIL, ROSA, JACKIEOk.

They discuss how to get more members.

SERIES OF SHOTS

29.

Nicky and the women passing fliers out and posting fliers on telephone poles and bulletin boards. Phil posts fliers in his salon.

INT. DEN - AFTERNOON

NICKYWe have some new members. Welcome. Im Nicky.

SUSANIm Susan. Welcome.

PHILIm Phil.

JACKIE.Hi. Im Jackie.

ROSAIm Rosa. Try some of my flan, baby. I make the best flan in the world, the best. Take.

Rosa passes around plates of her flan.

NICKY Would you please introduce yourselves.

SVETLANA is a knockout. She looks like a super model. The group looks at her curiously and enviously. She can barely speak any English.

SVETLANA(Heavy Russian accent)

My nama Svetlana. Vant to learn futeball.

CAROL is in her late twenties, on the conservative side.

CAROLHi, Im Carol. I just got engaged.

GROUPCongratulations.

CAROLThanks. And my fiance is so into football. I dont know anything. I want to surprise him and learn.

30.

(MORE)

He hates when I ask him questions about the game. Im not allowed to talk to him when the game is on.

SUSANOh, that sounds like my friend Jill. Her husband threw the remote control at the TV and broke the plasma screen because she said the Eagles suck.

(beat)She was just mad because he ignored her.

NICKYWell, youre at the right place Carol. Were all learning together.

SUSANThis is Gladys. She says she wants to learn football with us.

Susan puts her arm around GLADYS, who is about 75 years old and wearing a football jersey.

GLADYSThats right. Go Clevelanders.

The group is confused and looks to Susan for explanation. Susan shrugs. Phil raises his hand.

NICKY Yes, Phil.

PHILCan we go to a hockey game?

NICKYYea, sure. Why not. The Knicks? The Nets?

SUSANI think the Knicks are basketball.

NICKYReally?

PHILYea, the Rangers are the New York hockey team.

SUSANThen who are the Devils?

31.

CAROL (CONT'D)

PHILThey're the New Jersey team.

NICKYHow do you know so much about hockey?

PHILI dont. I just like the players, and watching them swoosh all over the ice. Number 81 with the Rangers, oh, I would be his puck anytime.

NICKYHey, we should learn other sports too.

ROSAOh, yes, boo. In Brazil baby, we love soccer.

INT. JACKS OFFICE - DAY

Nicky is using the copy machine next to Jacks office. Ralph walks into Jacks office. Ralph holds up the tickets.

RALPHHey, Jack. You want tickets for the Giants-Eagles game in Philie?

JACK Hell no.

RALPHI can't get rid of these things.

JACKNo thanks.

Nicky overhears them and peers into Jacks office.

NICKYIll take them.

RALPHYea? Here you go.

NICKYThanks.

Nicky takes the tickets and walks away triumphantly.

32.

INT. NICKYS CAR - DAY

Nicky is driving with Susan, Phil, Jackie and Rosa in the car. They are on their way to the Giants and Eagles game in Philadelphia. They are all wearing Giants sweatshirts and caps.

NICKYThis is a sign from the football God. Hell yea.

PHILIm so excited. This is my first football game.

GROUPWoo, hoo.

EXT. STADIUM PARKING LOT - DAY

They get out of the car at the stadium parking lot. Eagles tailgaters are everywhere. Nicky and the group are in awe at the tailgating. But they are the only ones wearing Giants shirts and caps. As they walk towards the stadium, they begin to realize they are in enemy territory. Eagles fans look at them with blood lust.

NICKYMan. Theyre really into this.

JACKIESeriously. hm hm hm.

SUSANOh my God.

PHILSo many men, so little time.

Several Eagles fans start taunting and booing them. Nicky and the group walk briskly to the stadium.

NICKYWhat the...

PHILHurry up, come on.

JACKIEThis is crazy.

33.

INT. STADIUM - DAY

Nicky and the group enter the stadium and wrestle their way through crowds to find their seats. They sit in their seats. Nicky begins to realize they are the only Giants fans.

CU men with eagle painted faces, growling.

The game is on. The Giants score a touchdown. Nicky and the group show excitement. They are the only ones who stand and cheer. The group is oblivious. They high five each other. All the Eagles fans remain seated and boo. Nicky is splashed in the face with beer. Phil is hit in the face with a hot dog. Jackie and Susan are doused with popcorn.

The Eagles score. All the Eagles fans stand and cheer. The group remains seated. Nicky looks around. Phil and Jackie start to boo. Nicky stops them. She takes off her Giants cap and tells the others to take off their caps.

The Giants score. Eagles fans boo. Jackie jumps up, but Nicky pulls her back down. Nicky boos. She nudges the others to boo. They all start to boo.

TIME CUT: END OF GAME

The Eagles win. Nicky and the group cheer and celebrate with the Eagles fans.

EXT. CAR IN PARKING LOT - DAY

CU shot of flier on car window: Football Support Group for Women. Dont sit in the sidelines this football season. Learn the game and make new friends. Call 732-319-8643.

Fliers are scattered across windshields and the pavement. A woman grabs the flier off her windshield and gets into her car.

ANOTHER CAR IN PARKING LOT - DAY

GARY, a man in his fifties, gets into his car. He sees the flier on the window and gets out to read it.

34.

INT. MATTS OFFICE IN NEWS ROOM - DAY

MATT DAWSON, a sports writer, handsome and in his late 30s, is typing at his computer. Gary, the sports editor, walks up to Matt.

GARYHey, I got something for you.

MATTWhats up?

GARYYou hear about some womens sports club?

MATTNo. What are you talking about?

GARY Theres some club, a womens support group. Theyre learning football.

MATT No man. Howd you hear about it?

Gary hands Matt the flier.

GARYHere. I want you to check it out.

Matt looks at the crumpled flier.

MATT Are you kidding me?

GARYNo. This could be interesting. I want you to write a feature on it.

MATTCome on. I have the games to cover. Send Margie.

GARY I want your take on it.

Gary leaves, Matt studies the flier.

35.

EXT. TOWNHOUSE - DAY

Matt is sitting in his car across the street from Nickys home. Hes watching as several people walk to her front door. He takes notes.

EXT. BALL FIELD - DAY

Nicky is jogging along football fields near her development.

Nickys POV:

EXT. FOOTBALL FIELD - DAY

A girls flag football game is taking place. Several of the girls on the team are muscular and manly.

Nicky stops and watches the game. COACH PAMELA ANDERSON, a tall, manly woman with short hair and a noticeable mustache is coaching the losing team. One of Coach Andersons players just got her flag pulled. Coach Anderson yells at her.

COACH ANDERSONMy mother can run faster than you! What was that?

Coach Anderson talks to her players sitting on the bench.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)This is why were 3 and 0. Katie, you going to run today or stand around like a statue, like your teammate?

KATIERun, mam.

COACH ANDERSONGet out there than.

Katie runs to the field, the flagged player comes off. Coach Anderson yells at her.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)Four laps around the field.

The tired player begins to jog around the field.

36.

EXT. BALL FIELD - LATER

Coach Andersons team loses. Her team congratulates the other team and walks off the field. Coach Anderson scolds them as they walk away.

COACH ANDERSONUnbelievable. Ill see you Wednesday, dont be late for practice or youre off the team.

Coach Anderson walks along the field, Nicky approaches her.

NICKYHi, excuse me.

Coach Anderson continues walking. Nicky rushes to keep up with her.

NICKY (CONT'D)Excuse me, coach.

COACH ANDERSON Yea.

NICKYHi, my name is Nicky.

COACH ANDERSONPamela Anderson. Coach Anderson.

Coach Anderson extends her hand and shakes Nickys.

NICKYHi Coach Anderson. I watched the game.

COACH ANDERSONWhat game? That wasnt a game. That was an ass kicking.

NICKYOh, I thought they played good.

Coach Andersons player she pulled off the field slowly jogs by. Coach Anderson whistles at her.

COACH ANDERSONGet some fire in your ass.

The girl jogs faster.

37.

NICKYId like to ask you a question.

COACH ANDERSONYea.

Coach Anderson spits. She puts a fresh wad of tobacco in her mouth.

NICKYMy friends and I are trying to learn how to play football. We dont know anything.

COACH ANDERSONYea.

NICKYCould you teach us? We really need help. I mean we try to watch, and ...

COACH ANDERSONI dont have time for this.

NICKYWe need someone to teach us.

COACH ANDERSON Look, I coach these girls a few times a week, and I have kids who play ball games. I cant.

NICKYBut we need a coach, and youre a coach. Well work around your schedule. Ill pay you.

Coach Anderson considers this.

COACH ANDERSON(beat)

Sixty bucks an hour.

NICKYOoh. How about forty.

COACH ANDERSONFify. Take it or leave it.

NICKYOK, fifty it is.

38.

COACH ANDERSONNext Sunday. Meet at my house at 1 p.m. Dont be late or the deals off.

NICKYYes coach. See you then.

EXT. TOWNHOUSE - DAY

Matt is sitting in his car watching as people walk to Nickys front door. He cant make up his mind whether or not to go in. He gets out of his car, then gets back in. He finally decides to go to the groups meeting and walks to the front door.

INT. DEN - DAY

Matt is seated on the sofa in Nickys den. Next to him, sits Phil, Rosa and Jackie. There are some more newcomers including two other men and five women, sitting on extra chairs. Nicky sits in front of the group. Phil has the hots for Matt. Nickys dog sits next to her.

NICKYYou know, its amazing how many men have joined our group.

Nicky motions to one of the men, DAVE, lanky and nerdy.

NICKY (CONT'D)Dave, what brings you here?

DAVELook at me. I was always more into books...and computers. My wifes a football junky. She never does anything else during football season. She doesnt even know I exist.

NICKYI understand.

The group nods their heads.

GROUPYea. Its ok. Well help.

39.

NICKY(to Matt)

What about you?

MATTUh...um. Yea, me too. Im dating a woman who plays football.

NICKYReally?

MATTYea. Shes on a womans football team.

NICKYAnd you dont know anything about football?

MATTNo. Im more into writing, actually. Yea, writing.

NICKYReally? Thats interesting. Maybe we could read your work sometime.

MATTOh, yea, maybe.

NICKYThat would be nice. And maybe we can watch your girlfriend play sometime.

MATT What?

NICKYMaybe we can watch her play football. That would be cool.

MATTOh. Yeah. Watch her game. OK.

NICKY(To Lenny)

And you? What brings you here Lenny?

LENNY is a big, black man, about 64 and more than 300 lbs.Matt takes notes.

40.

LENNY(despondent)

I want to hang with my buddies, and I dont know anything about football. I make excuses all the time so I dont have to hang with them. They cant know I dont know football.

Matt stifles a chuckle. He pretends to cough and clear his throat. The group looks at him.

PHILWhy dont you know anything about football?

LENNYMy mother never let me play. She was overprotective because I have asthma. She kept a close eye on me. Always wanted me home and safe. Then I just closed myself off.

ROSA(consoling)

Its ok boo.

SUSANYea. We understand. Youre not the only one.

GROUPYea. Its ok.

Nicky pulls out pictures of Giants team members as she speaks.

NICKYOK, so, the Giants are two and one. This week theyre playing the Redskins. This is Eli Manning, the quarterback, his job is to throw the ball..

Matt continues taking notes.

INT. COACH ANDERSONS DEN - AFTERNOON *

Nicky, Susan, Phil, Rosa, Jackie, Matt, Lenny, Svetlana, Carol, and Gladys are in the den looking around. They look at a photo of Coach Anderson and her skinny, diminutive husband and their three ugly kids--two boys and a girl.

41.

Photos of the kids, sports trophies and football Giants memorabilia fill the room. CU of photos show Donnas kids at different ages, from infant on, wearing football uniforms, holding trophies, etc.

A loud whistle sound penetrates the room. They jump. Superbowl theme music plays loudly. Coach Anderson walks in blowing the whistle. Shes dressed in a Giants jersey and Giants cap.

COACH ANDERSONGive me twenty.

GROUPWhat?

COACH ANDERSONYou heard me. Drop and give me twenty. I want your full attention and you need to get warmed up.

The group looks at each other with uncertainty. They get down on the floor and struggle to do push ups, except Matt and Lenny. They finish, stand and line up. Coach Anderson walks the line and studies them.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)OK. Are you all ready to learn some football?

GROUPYes.

Coach Anderson stops in front of Lenny and stares him down.

COACH ANDERSONI didnt hear you. Are you ready to learn some football?

GROUPYes!

COACH ANDERSONWhat did you say?

GROUPYes! Yes!

Coach Anderson keeps walking and studying the group.

COACH ANDERSONNow thats more like it.

42.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)Football is serious business. I expect you to take it seriously. You hear?

GROUPYes, mam.

Coach Andersons HUSBAND and five-year-old SON enter the room. The boy runs to grab a football.

COACH ANDERSONTheres my little man.

The group looks at the boy.

GROUPAwe.

Coach Anderson was referring to her husband who she gives a crushing hug and lifts off the floor.

COACH ANDERSONAnd thats my son Andy.

She motions to Andy.

GROUPHi Andy.

The husband and son walk to the door.

HUSBANDBye dear. Have fun. Ill have dinner ready. Im making pot roast.

COACH ANDERSONMy favorite. Make those potatoes I love too. And strawberry shortcake. Hmm.

HUSBANDOf course.

Coach Anderson winks at her husband, who leaves the room with the boy.

COACH ANDERSONWhere were we? Oh. Lets get started. First, were going to learn positions.

43.

GROUPOk.

SERIES OF SHOTS

A) Coach Anderson uses pointing stick to point at positions on large board.

B) Coach Anderson hands out pictures and stats of the players.

C) The group stands around a table top, football board game with players on it. The group tries to figure out where the pieces go.

D) Coach Anderson scorns them.

E) The group is frustrated and repositions pieces.

F) Phil throws a tantrum.

G) Susan is frustrated.

H) Nicky shows excitement when shes right.

I) Rosa sips her cocktail.

J) Matt takes notes.

K) Jackie and Nicky cheer each other on.

L) Coach Anderson stands in front of group and performs referee gestures.

M) The group guesses what shes doing.

N) She has the group simulate moves.

COACH ANDERSONOk, I think were ready!

She hands out Giants sweatshirts and caps.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)Lets go watch the game! The Giants are playing the Miami Dolphins!

She leads everyone to the front door.

SUSANOhhh, I love dolphins. Theyre so cute, and smart.

44.

(MORE)

Theyre really very intelligent. I swam with them once, when I was in the Keys.

ROSAOh, they are beautiful baby. I love.

SUSANArent they?

PHILI fed dolphins at a Marine Park. They kissed me on the cheek.

SUSANOh, Im routing for the dolphins.

Coach Anderson turns abruptly around and whistles. The group is startled.

COACH ANDERSONI hate the Dolphins. Nobody likes the Dolphins. Dont even mention that word around me. And especially dont ever let me hear you say cowboys. From here on in, you are all Giants fans. Got that?

GROUPYes. Got it.

Rosa whispers to Jackie.

ROSAOh, she like a man, baby.

JACKIEHm, hm, hm.

They walk to the door. Matt takes notes.

INT. SPORTS BAR - DAY

CU TV screen, the Giants are playing the Dolphins.

The group walks into the bar, which is not crowded. Matt trails behind them and observes. It's a family crowd and people look at the group as they walk by and chuckle to themselves. A few middle-aged, beer belly men are seated at the bar. The group walks to the bar. Nicky sits next to a MAN already at the bar, Coach Anderson sits on Nickys other side. The others all sit at the bar.

45.

SUSAN (CONT'D)

SUSAN We look ridiculous.

JACKIEOh, who careslet's order some drinks.

ROSAWhere are all the mens?

SUSANYea, where are all the mens?

Nicky is optimistic about their new adventure.

NICKYThis is good. We need practice.

JIMMY the bartender greets them.

COACH ANDERSONJimmy, theyre looking good.

JIMMY You know it. What can I get you?

COACH ANDERSONIll have a beer.

BARTENDER(to Nicky)

You?

NICKY I'll have a Coors light.

SUSANMe too.

JACKIEMake that three.

ROSAOh, I'll have a pina colada, baby.

PHILThat sounds good, me too..

COACH ANDERSON (to Phil)

You can't have a pina colada.

46.

PHILWhy not?

COACH ANDERSONIt's not a man's drink. You're not allowed to drink anything with umbrellas in it, or anything thats fruity or creamy. It's a rule.

PHILBut Im gay.

COACH ANDERSONHow are you going to find a man if you're drinking umbrella drinks? You're in a sports bar, you have to drink something manly, like beer. Right Matt?

MATTOh, right.

Matt holds up his beer and takes a sip.

PHILI don't like beer. I like pinacoladas.

A MAN at the bar sitting next to Nicky is watching the game.

MANDam, I can't believe he fumbled. They're playing like crap.

NICKYI know. They're playing so bad.

MANI bet 100 on this game.

NICKYOh, uh.

MANThey better pick up their game.

Nicky looks at the menu. Phil sips his pina colada.

INT. OTHER SIDE OF SPORTS BAR - DAY

Jackie is talking with a man at the bar. They hit it off.

47.

INT. SPORTS BAR - DAY

NICKY(contemplating menu)

Hhhm. Whats good, this is my first time here.

MANThey make great wings. Here, try a wing.

He offers Nicky a chicken wing from his plate, he takes a bite. He continues to watch the TV.

MAN (CONT'D)Go, goall right

Nicky bites into a wing.

NICKYMmm.these are good.

The man is frustrated in reaction to the game on TV.

MANMan, I miss Tiki Barber.

NICKYOh, I love the Tiki Bar.

Nicky sips her drink and fondly remembers:

EXT. TIKI BAR IN POINT PLEASANT, NJ - DAY

Nicky is seated with friends at a table under an umbrella on the pier. The ocean is in the background, live music plays. Drinks are on the table. Theyre laughing and having a good time.

INT. SPORTS BAR - DAY

The man and Nicky continue to talk. Matt observes and jots down notes as he listens. The rest of the group watches the game.

MANYea, that was some last season.

48.

NICKY(dreamily)

It was a great season.

MANThis seasons not looking as good.

NICKYHow do you know, its not the season yet.

MAN(Laughs)

Yea, I guess theyre really not into their season yet.

NICKY Well, I cant wait til it opens again.

MAN Opens?

NICKYThe season opens.

MANWhat season?

NICKYSummer. It's always fun there.

MAN Summer?

The bartender is amused. Coach Anderson looks stern as she observes.

NICKYThe Tiki Bar.

MANTiki Bar?

NICKYYea.

Nicky looks at Coach Anderson, who motions for Nicky to shut up.

COACH ANDERSONHes talking about Tiki Barber, you idiot.

49.

NICKYA barber, at the Tiki?

DONNATiki Barber played for the Giants. He retired. One of the greatest tight ends of all time. How can you not know that?

NICKYTight end? Oh.

Matt laughs and writes notes. Jackie walks excitedly over to the group.

JACKIEI may not know anything about football, but I have a date for dinner and Monday night football.

The group shows excitement. Matt jots down more notes.

INT. JACKS OFFICE - DAY

Nicky lingers outside Jacks office. She pops her head in.

NICKYYou got a minute?

JACKSure, Red.

Nicky goes in and sits down in front of Jacks desk.

NICKYSo, how does betting on a football game work? I mean...what does it mean if you have 100 on a game?

JACK Well, if youre betting 100 on a game...Youre betting 100 for the team to either win or lose.

NICKYOk.

JACKUsually, they keep it at a six to five ratio.

50.

NICKY Who does?

JACKThe bookie.

NICKYOh. What does that mean?

JACKLets say you bet 500 on a game, and you win, youll get 400.If youre a one time better, itll cost you more. It depends on how good the bookie knows you. You want to keep the juice low.

NICKYJuice?

JACK Yea, the vig.

NICKYWhat the hell are you talking about?

JACKThe bookies trying to make money. Why you asking anyway?

NICKY Well, Im trying to learn sports.

JACKYou? Thats like, me learning how to knit.

NICKYI know. I figure I have to if I want to meet men.

JACKYea, no kidding. But when youre betting, you have to think of the point spread.

NICKYWhats that?

51.

JACKLook, any idiot can pick the stronger team. The point spread evens out the teams.

NICKYSo, what does the spread do?

JACKIf team A, say the New England Patriots, is the favored team to win, you take away the amount of points they are favored to win by. Lets say seven points. So, itd be New England minus seven. If you bet on them, they have to win the game by more than seven points.

NICKYIm not following.

JACKI cant talk now. Well do this later.

Jack gets up from his desk. He picks up an envelope and walks out his office. Nicky follows him.

INT. HALLWAY - DAY

Nicky follows Jack as he walks down the hallway.

NICKYExplain the spread again.

JACKOK, you bet on New England, right?

NICKYRight.

JACKThe point spread is New England minus seven. Right?

NICKYRight.

JACK New England has to win the game by how many points?

52.

NICKYSeven?

JACKWrong.

NICKYWhy?

JACKThey have to win by more than seven points.

NICKYOh.

JACKIf they win by only seven points, thats called a push....nobody won.

NICKYSo, what if I bet on the Eagles to win?

JACKIf you bet on the Eageles and they win, you win the bet, as long as they win by more than seven points.

NICKYMy head hurts.Who makes up the point spread?

JACKIts in the paper. Now, if you really want to impress a guy, you ask whats the over/under.

NICKY Oh, geez, whats the over/under?

JACKYou bet on the total score by both teams, whether it was over...or under.

INT. MAILROOM - DAY

Jack walks into the mailroom and puts envelope in mail bin. Nicky follows.

53.

NICKYI dont get it.

JACKThe Patriots are playing the Eagles, and the over/under is 48. If you bet over, the total score has to be more than 48. You bet under, its gotta be less than 48.

NICKYIm confused. What if the...

JACKIEListen, I gotta go to the john.

Jack walks into the mens room leaving Nicky standing alone.

INT. MENS BATHROOM

Jack washes and dries his hands, looks in mirror. He walks out the bathroom to find Nicky waiting for him.

JACKOh, jeez.

NICKY How do I use that in a sentence?

JACKWhat?

NICKY Ill end up saying something stupid, like Hows the under/over today?...Did the play go over? I dont know what Im talking about.

JACKOh. The over/under. So he says, I got 100 on the game. You say, Thats a pretty good bet, whats the over/under?

NICKYThats it?

JACKYea, thats it.

54.

NICKYWait, one more question. Say, Im at a sports bar, and I want to have a conversation with a guy, hes watching the game. What do I say?

JACKYou, mean...Im sitting at the bar watching the game. You come over to me....and want to start talking to me?

NICKYYea.

JACKWhats the score?

NICKYI dont know what the score is.

JACKNo, you ask him, Whats the score?

NICKYOh,...yea..Whats the score? Duh.

JACKLook Red, Im running late. I gotta go.

Jack rushes outside the building.

EXT. SPORTS BAR - EVENING

Nicky is talking to herself in front of the bar entrance. Shes pacing and appears nervous. Shes trying to psyche herself up.

NICKYYou can do this. Theyre counting on you. Aahhhh. OK. This is easy. Whats the score? Hey, whats the score? Hi, whats the score.

Nicky paces some more and enters the bar.

55.

INT. SPORTS BAR - DAY

Nicky walks to the bar, tries to appear confident. She sits next to a MAN. She looks around and eats peanuts nervously. Nicky motions to MIKE, the bartender.

NICKY What carb free beers do you have?

Mike brings a beer bottle. Nicky takes sip and sits for awhile. She looks at the man next to her and smiles.

NICKHi.

MAN AT BARHi.

Nicky eats more peanuts, sips her beer and considers the next question.

NICKYWhats the score?

MAN AT BARSeven-nothing. Giants.

NICKYGreat.

(Pause)Whats the point spread?

MAN AT BARThree and a half.

NICKYOh.

(Beat)Whats the over/under?

MAN AT BAR(To the bartender)

Hey, Bill. Whats the over/under?

MIKEThe Giants game? Forty-five.

MAN AT BARI bet the spread before it went down.

56.

MIKEMan. The kickers hurting.

Nicky looks dumbfounded.

MAN AT BARThey say its just a sprain, he should be all right by the next game.

MIKEBrought the spread down two points.

MAN AT BARYea, I know. The Colts better pull it off.

MIKEShould be a close one.

MAN AT BAROh, hell yea.

Nicky fumbles through her pocketbook.

NICKYOh, my pager. Oh, look at that. I have to go.

Nicky rushes out of the bar.

INT. NICKYS CAR - DAY

CU on Nicky. Shes trying to calm down, shes relieved from panic. Shes also excited for her partial victory.

NICKYOh, my God. Oh, my God. Whew. Woa.Ok, ok, ok. Whats the score? Hey, whats the score?

She turns on the car and starts driving. She repeats Whats the score? a few times with different emotions ranging from confident, cocky, excited, etc.

NICKY (CONT'D)(singing/rambling to herself)

Whats the score? Whats the point spread? The under/Over. Do you know the score? I know the score? Hey, whats the score?

57.

SERIES OF DISSOLVING SHOTS:

A) Nicky with the sports pages explains betting to the group, including Matt.

B) The group looking confused.

C) Nicky places a bet with Jack, gives him money.

D) Nicky shows excitement from a win, collects money from Jack.

E) More meetings of Nicky and the support group and new members.

F) Nicky, the group and members at different bars.

G) Women from the support group meeting men and going on dates.

INT. COACH ANDERSONS MINI-VAN - EVENING

Coach Anderson is in the driver's seat. Nicky is in the passenger seat. Phil, Jackie, Rosa, Susan, Gladys and Svetlana are in the back. Coach Anderson taps a small microphone.

COACH ANDERSON(To Nicky)

Ok. So, let's test these babies out. Step outside.

Nicky gets out of van and shuts door. Coach Anderson speaks into the microphone. Nicky has an earpiece.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)Red Giant to Blue ball. You copy?

Nicky places hand over the ear with the receiver.

NICKYCopy.

COACH ANDERSONRepeat after me. Operation man sweep is in play.

NICKYOperation man sweep is in play.

58.

COACH ANDERSON Beautiful. Its like your talking into my ear. OK, let's do this.

NICKYLets do this.

INT. SPORTS BAR - EVENING

Nicky enters the bar and looks around. She speaks into her mike.

NICKY Jackpot. Its packed.

INT. VAN - EVENING

COACH ANDERSONGreat. Gimme the breakdown.

INT. BAR

Nickys scopes the bar.

HER POV

Some men in Jets shirts, just a couple in Cowboys shirts.

NICKYWe got some Greens and some Cowboys.

INT. VAN

COACH ANDERSONOK. Whats your pick?

INT. BAR

Nicky sees a group of handsome men who are clearly Jets fans.

NICKYThe Greens are looking good.

Nicky doesnt see Matt who is seated at a small table by the bar. Hes wearing a cap low on his forehead, which covers his eyes. Hes holding a beer in his hand and surreptitiously observes.

59.

INT. VAN

COACH ANDERSON Green it is. Put on the greens.

Jackie, Susan, Gladys and Svetlana fumble through shirts. Jackie puts on the Jets shirt. Susan, Gladys and Svetlana put on cowboys shirts. Coach Anderson looks at them in the backseat.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)No, no! The other shirts. Come on, the green ones, the Jets.

Susan and Gladys take off the Cowboys shirts and put on Jets jerseys. Svetlana puts Jets jersey over the Cowboys jersey. Coach Anderson speaks into the microphone.

COACH ANDERSON (CONT'D)Ok. Theyre coming in.

INT. BAR

Nicky is still standing by the bar.

NICKY Roger that.

Jackie, Susan, Rosa, Svetlana and Gladys enter the bar. Theyre wearing coats. Rosa is carrying a large pocketbook. They walk to the bar and take off their coats. They take seats at a table by the bar. All the men stare at Svetlana. Two men start talking to Svetlana. The Cowboys jersey is sticking out.

MAN 1So, youre a Jets fan?

MAN 2Yea, nice shirt.

SVETLANAFuteball. Yes. Futeball.

SUSAN(To Jackie)

Why does she even have to learn sports? She can get any man she wants.

60.

JACKIEHm hm hm, I dont know.

Man 2 notices the Cowboys jersey and motions to it.

MAN 2Whats this?

SVETLANAFuteball good.

The man could care less. Matt observes and takes notes.

INT. BATHROOM IN BAR - EVENING

Rosa walks into the bathroom carrying her bag. Nicky is in the bathroom anxiously waiting. Rosa takes a Jets jersey out of the bag and gives it to Nicky, who throws it on. They go to the bar and meet the rest of the group. A few man have gathered around the group.

INT. BAR - LATER

Nicky and a man at the bar are flirtatious with each other and talking. Nicky motions to her shirt.

NICKY(like a proud mother)

Yea, theyre my team.

MAN 3Pennington pulled off some comeback last week. What a fucking throw.

NICKYOh, I know.

(beat)

INT. VAN - EVENING

Coach Anderson and Phil rummage through notes and newspaper clippings.

COACH ANDERSON OK. Remember they lost to the Patriots, the stronger team and a Superbowl winner. So...they held their own, they fought back, from 24 to 0.

61.

INT. BAR - EVENING

Matts observing Nicky and the man. He starts to feel jealous. Nicky runs her finger through her hair to adjust earpiece and hear Coach Andersons instructions.

NICKY(to man)

Yea. Down 24 to 0. That was some game. They held their own.

INT. VAN

COACH ANDERSONCotchery ran a 71 yard touchdown.

INT. BAR

NICKYCouldnt believe that 71 yarder by...

Nicky cant comprehend the name. She coughs to stall for time.

MAN 3You ok?

Nicky coughs more, clears throat.

INT. VAN

COACH ANDERSONCotch...cotch...er...eee. Cothery.

INT. BAR

Nicky recovers.

NICKYHmm. Boy. Went down the wrong pipe. I was saying, that touchdown by Cotchery was amazing.

MAN 3Oh, that was beautiful. Thats when I knew we had a chance.

62.

NICKYYea. At least they fought hard. Im looking forward to todays game.

INT. VAN

COACH ANDERSONGood job.

Coach Anderson and Phil high five.

INT. BAR

The man at the bar is flirting heavily with Nicky now. CU on Matt. He cant take it anymore as his jealousy escalates. He leaves the bar, takes off his cap and approaches Nicky like he just entered the bar.

MATTHey, look who it is.

NICKY(surprised)

Hey Matt.

Matt and the man at the bar acknowledge each other. Matt moves in between the man and Nicky, who is concerned that the man will walk away.

MATTSo, you here watching the game?

NICKYYea. What are you doing here?

MATTJust, watching the game too.

The man accepts defeat and moves on. Nicky looks over Matts shoulder and sees the man mingling with his friends.

MATT (CONT'D)So, what a surprise finding you here.

NICKYYea. Do you come here a lot?

63.

MATTNo, no. I just thought Id grab a drink and watch the game, like men do.

NICKYOh.

Nickys not sure what to make of this.

HER POV

The man she was talking to has now moved on. Hes talking to another woman. She reconciles that this was a lost opportunity.

MATTLet me get you another round.

Matt orders another beer. Nicky fumbles for her earpiece, pulls it out and stuffs it in her pocketbook. Matt hands her a beer. They watch the game and talk.

INT. BAR - EVENING

Gladys is talking to an old man next to her.

OLD MANI remember when they won the Superbowl in 69. I was at that game. Boy, that Joe Namath was one hell of a player. Good old, Broadway Joe.

GLADYSI had the hots for him. He was one sexy tamale.

Gladys sips her beer. Jackie and Susan are talking to each other. They are watching Svetlana who is surrounded by men.

JACKIEI still dont understand why she needs to learn football. Were not going to meet any men if shes with us.

SUSANI know. I dont get it. Look at her. She doesnt even speak English and theyre flocking all over her.

64.

JACKIE Hm hm hm. She should not be here.

Cut to Rosa and man talking.

ROSAHi, baby. I love the Jets baby.

MAN 4Yea me too. I like your accent.

ROSAOh, thank you, baby. Im from Brazil. Do you know the pointaspreada for the game?

MAN 4The what?

ROSAThe pointa spread?

MAN 4Oh, the point spread. Yea. Its down to 3 from 3 and a half.

ROSA Oh. What about the under and overa, do you know?

MAN 4Uh, yea...41.

ROSAOh, 41, thats good.

INT. DEN - DAY

Nicky, Susan, Rosa, Jackie and several members are watching a game on TV.

INT. KITCHEN - DAY

Matt is standing at the kitchen counter with Phil who is making more dip.

MATTSo, about how many members are in this group?

65.

PHILOh, I dont know, more than forty.

MATTReally? So, why did you join this group?

Phil scoops some dip from bowl and puts on Matts lip.

PHIL How does this taste?

MATTGood.

Matts a little uncomfortable.

PHILThe same reason all the women did.

MATTWhys that?

PHILTo meet men.

Phil licks dip off his finger and looks into Matts eyes.

MATTOh. So, thats why they started the group?

PHILOh, yea, honey. We dont want to watch this boring shit. Come on, lets get back to the party.

They walk back into the den. Matt jots down notes.

INT. DINING ROOM - DAY

Matt is talking to Rosa who is eating her flan.

MATTSo, why did you join this group?

ROSAOh, they make me baby. I dont want to watch football. But, there are a lot of mens when we go out.

66.

MATTSo, you joined so you can meet men?

ROSAYes. Its hard to meet a man baby.

INT. DEN - DAY

Jackie and Matt are sitting next to each other. Other group members are sitting and chatting with each other. A football game is on TV.

MATTSo, do you really think you need to know football to meet a guy?

JACKIEWell, its not just about meeting a man. Its also having something to talk about.

MATTTheres nothing else to talk about?

JACKIEApparently. We have women here who are football widows. Women in new relationships. Women whove been married for years. Theyre all frustrated.

MATTIs this helping them?

JACKIEOh, yea. Like Carol over there.

Jackie points to Carol. Matt acknowledges.

JACKIE (CONT'D)She said she and her fiance had the best sex they ever had after she watched the game with him last week.

Matt ruminates on this and takes notes.

INT. OFFICE - DAY

Nicky steps into Jacks office and sits down.

67.

JACKYes.

NICKYI have a question.

Jack puts his head down.

JACKOh, no.

NICKYDo the Giants ever play the Jets?

JACK Yea. Every few years.

NICKYDoes a team play every other team in the NFL?

JACKYea, but not in one season.

NICKYHow do they decide what teams play each other?

Jack speaks with a forced tempo, he wants to get this over with.

JACKThe NFL has two conferences, the National Football Conference and the American Football Conference.

NICKYOk.

JACKEach conference is broken down into divisions.

NICKYKay.

JACKWith four teams in each.

NICKYFourteen?

68.

JACKFour.

NICKYFour...teen?

JACKFour teams. F-O-U-R. T-E-A-M-S.

He holds up four fingers. He writes four and teams on a pad of paper and holds it up. Hes frustrated.

JACK (CONT'D)Four teams in each division.

NICKYOh, four teams.

Nicky takes the notepad and starts taking notes.

JACKFour teams. The Giants are in the NFL East Conference, with the Eagles, the Cowyboys and the Redskins. The Jets are in the AFCEast Conference.

NICKYOk.

JACKEach team plays the other teams in their division twice, at a home game and away. They play eight games with each team in two other divisions.

NICKYIm lost.

JACKI figured.

Jack starts writing the AFC and NFC teams in a grid on a dry erase board. He draws lines from team to team as he explains. Nicky looks more confused. Several minutes pass as he continues to draw on the board and explain.

NICKYIm not following.

69.

JACKI cant help you with that. Just keep looking at the board. Youll get it.

Jack leaves the office. Nicky is seated in front of the board and stares at it. She looks confused.

NICKY(Talking to herself, looking at the board and refering to her notes)

Ok. So the Jets play the Dolphins, Bills and Patriots. Then...they play...huh...

INT. DEN - EVENING

Nicky is sitting on her sofa watching a football game. Shes leaning forward and excited. She takes bites from a slice of pizza. A pizza box is on the table. She takes sips from a beer bottle. She burps and eats more pizza. She jumps up. Her pants are unbuttoned. She paces while still watching the TV. The team scores. She jumps up excitedly and dances.

INT. BAR - DAY -- A WEEK LATER

Nicky and Susan are sitting at the bar. Mike gives them beers.

MIKEYou two watching the game today?

NICKYHell yea. Should be a good game. The Cowboys are looking strong this year.

RICH, another bartender, walks over.

MIKEThat was a bad call last week. Did you see that? He didnt push off on the guy.

NICKYI know. He didnt even touch the guy. That call threw the whole game. I was pissed.

70.

RICHThat was wrong.

NICKYI thought they were going to change the call.

Susan looks at Nicky in disbelief.

SUSANOh my God, youre really getting into this.

NICKYHhm?

SUSANYoure freaking me out, seriously.

NICKYNo Im not. Im just making conversation.

SUSANYes, you are, talking about the bad call and being pissed. Whats up with that? And ew, you watched the game last week?

NICKYWell, yea, I have to know how the teams are doing.

SUSANNo, you watched it, because you wanted to watch it. Ew.

NICKYNo, I made myself watch it.

MIKEHey, Nick, what about the Mets?Division champs. Did you catch the game?

NICKYOh, hell yea.

Mike and Nicky high five each other.

SUSAN Wow. Who are you? I dont know you.

71.

NICKYLook, Im playing a role here. You, know, support group leader.

SUSANYea, ok.

NICKYReally. Am I good or what?

SUSANYou sure have me fooled.

NICKYIsnt that the point?

SUSANOK, cool, you were scaring me there.

NICKY Dont be scared. Its still me. So, we have a lot of new people who joined. We have to plan out what bars to hit. Its getting crowded.

SUSANYea, like ten new people are coming this week, and Phil said theres like 15 more women from his salon who want to join. And he wants to know what gay sports bars to go to.

NICKYOh, we have to get more jerseys and supplies. And the Superbowl, shoot, we have to plan the Superbowl party.

They continue talking and watch the game with the bartenders. Its a good game, Nicky is psyched.

INT. KITCHEN - MORNING

Nicky is sitting at the kitchen reading the sports pages and drinking coffee. Shes genuinely interested in the reading. She looks impressed as she reads about her team.

72.

INT. OFFICE AT THE WATER COOLER - MORNING

Jack and Ralph are standing at the water cooler. Nicky walks up to them excitedly.

NICKYMan, did you see the game last night? That was incredible. What a comeback. I couldnt believe it.

JACKDid I see it? Hell yea. Thats one for the history books.

RALPHI was going to stop watching it, just turn off the TV. But, damn, a field goal in the last seven seconds.

NICKYI saw that it was 24 to 7, and said, the Giants lost. But, then they got the touchdown. Then to tie it. I was screaming. That was so exciting.

JACKEli did a hell of a job. Theyre looking good. Unbelievable.

NICKYAnd that catch by Buress in the endzone....holy shit. That was amazing.

JACKOh, that was something. Thirty-yards, whew. Eli knew hes tall, he could get it.

NICKYHm Hm hm. When Feely kicked that field goal, I was just, I couldnt move...and when they got it...I was shocked, just couldnt believe it. That they turn around and tie it like that. Fuckin A.

They continue to stand around reflecting on the game with amazement. Jack looks at Nicky curiously as she reflects proudly on the game.

73.

INT. SPORTS BAR - EVENING

Nicky and Matt are sitting at the bar drinking beers.

NICKYSo, this should be a good game.

MATTWhys that?

Nicky speaks with confidence and sincere interest.

NICKYWell, the Seahawks are the defending NFC champions, and the Giants lost to them in a major overtime game last year, was so close.

MATTReally?

NICKYYea, and the crowd goes nuts in Qwest Field, where theyre playing. They try to psyche the other team out. Yea, and Feely, the Giants kicker, missed three field goals there last year...that could have won the game. So, this should be exciting. If the Giants win this, its a major win.

MATTWow, Im impressed.

NICKYWhys that?

MATTThat you know so much about football. Usually, women could give a sh...I mean, women, dont usually know so much about the teams.

NICKYWell, I have to study, you know for the group. Trust me, nobody knew less about sports than me.

Nicky looks at the TV screen.

74.

NICKY (CONT'D)Shoot the Giants are behind. Damn. Fourteen to zero. How the hell did that happen? And its only the first quarter.

MATTDamnit.

NICKYOh, shit...it looks like. Danm.Unbelievable. Wheres the defense?

MATTHoly shit. God da.

(Stifling his reaction)..excuse me, Im going to the mens room.

INT. MENS BATHROOM - EVENING

Matt goes into the mens room where he vents his frustration and anger.

MATT Un-fucking-believable. Damn. What the hell was that?

Another MAN is in the bathroom finishing at the urinal.

MAN AT URINALI cant watch that shit anymore.

The man zips up and leaves.

MATTI dont believe this.

He paces for awhile and cools down. Matt walks back to the bar.

INT. BAR - LATER

Matt walks up to Nicky at the bar. Shes more frustrated now at the game and brings Matt up to speed on the score.

NICKY(More frustrated and informing him)

Its 27, nothing now. Im so bummed. Ugh, damm.

75.

MATTJeez, another touchdown?

NICKYThis is sickening, and its just the beginning of the second quarter.

MATTOh, Christ. Howd that happen?

NICKYManning got sacked, turned over the ball.

MATTHow many sacks is that now?

NICKYI dont know, like six. Hey, youre getting into this too.

MATTWell, yea. Its contagious, I guess.

NICKYYea, Im actually beginning to like it. How weird.

They look at the screen and watch the game, going horribly wrong. Matt tries to restrain his frustration.

NICKY (CONT'D)Oh my God. Theyre getting killed. Its embarrassing.

Matts shaking his head looking down.

MATTI cant watch this.

NICKYThirty-four nothing in the first two quarters. This is bad.

They both watch the screen.

MATTWhat the fu..

(takes deep breath)What are they doing? This is frustrating.

76.

NICKYWow, youre really getting upset.

MATTWell, theyre playing bad. Really bad. Anybody can tell that.

NICKYSee, you get into. You cant help it. It, like grabs you.

MATTYea.

Nicky and Matt look at the TV, the Giants score a touchdown. They jump up and scream and hug.

NICKYAll right. Finally. Yes.

MATTYes. Thats what Im talking about.

NICKYThat was awesome.

MATTYea. Youre awesome.

Long pause. They look at each other and feel a spark. They lean in to kiss, hesitate and stop. They watch more of the game. The other team scores another touchdown. The Giants miss a pass.

NICKYThis is disgusting. Maybe we should go. I cant watch this anymore, 41, seven.

MATT Maybe youre right. I cant watch.

NICKY Im really upset.

Matt puts his arm around Nicky and consoles her. She rests her head on his chest. He hugs her. She looks up and they kiss briefly. They look at each other.

NICKY (CONT'D)Wait a second. You have a girlfriend.

77.

MATTOh. No I dont.

NICKYWhat?

MATTI dont have a girlfriend. I just said I did.

NICKYWhy?

MATTI dont know. I needed a reason to join your club.

NICKYWhy would you lie and say you have a girlfriend...and one who plays football?

MATTI dont know. I wasnt thinking.

NICKYWhat if you really do have a girlfriend...and now youre lying. Is she like a big, burly woman whos going to come after me?

MATTNo, I dont have a girlfriend.

NICKYI cant fight. Shell kick my ass. Im peaceful, Im not strong.

MATT .I dont have a girlfriend.

NICKYHow do I know? Are you a player? Youre playing me.

MATTNo, Im not. Im not a player. I swear, I dont have a girlfriend. I just said that.

NICKYWhy would you do that?

78.

MATTI wanted to join your club. I heard about it, and wanted to learn football. Listening to the other guys talk, it just came to me.

NICKYWhy should I believe you?

MATTSeriously, I dont have a girlfriend. Im not dating anyone. Im really enjoying hanging out with you.

NICKYHhmm..

MATT Lets go on a real date, Ill prove it to you.

NICKY I dont know. Really?

MATT Yea, lets do it. I want to spend more time with you.

NICKYOK. Under one condition.

MATT Shoot.

NICKYNo sports. No sports date.

MATT You got it. Dinner and a movie.

NICKYDinner and a movie.

INT. TOWNHOUSE - DAY

The doorbell rings. Nicky opens the door and greets Matt. He walks in. The dog greets Matt.

NICKYHey.

79.

MATT .Hey Roxie.

Matt plays with the dog.

MATT (talking to Roxie)

Maybe next time well take you and my dog to the park. How does that sound?

NICKYThat sounds like fun. Roxie would love that.

MATTIts a date, another one.

NICKYGreat.

MATTReady?

NICKYReady.

INT. CAR - EARLY EVENING

Matt is driving. Nicky is in the passenger seat.

MATTYou hungry?

NICKYStarving. Where are we going?

MATTIm thinking Italian, bring your own.

A brown bag with wine bottle is on the back seat.

MATT (CONT'D)I know this great little, Italian restaurant. The best meatballs and sauce.

NICKYHmmm.

80.

INT. RESTAURANT - EVENING

Matt and Nicky are sitting at a table in the restaurant. Matt makes a toast.

MATTHeres to our first date.

NICKYI drink to that.

They toast and sip their wine.

NICKY (CONT'D)So what do you write?

MATTOh, I write all kinds of stuff.

NICKYReally? Like what?

MATTOh, a novel here, a short story there.

NICKYAbout what? Fiction?

MATTYes, some fiction. Mostly commentaries on life. What about you? What do you when youre not running your support group?

NICKYI work for a hospital in the Marketing Department.

MATTSounds like a good job.

NICKYIts a job.

SERIES OF SHOTS

A) Nicky and Matt talking and laughing and sharing an appetizer.

B) Matt removing crumb from Nickys cheek.

81.

C) The two sharing a romantic gaze.

Matt is startled when he sees Gary standing across the room waiting to be seated. He tries to hide his face behind Nicky, a wine list and a flower vase on the table. Its too late, Gary spotted him and begins to walk over. Matt looks uptight.

GARYHey, you getting the meatballs?

Matt introduces Gary to Nicky.

MATTYou know it. Gary, this is Nicky.

GARY Pleasure to meet you.

NICKYHi Gary.

GARYYoure not going to miss tomorrows game, right?

MATTNo, no.

GARYDont drink too much, we cant have you missing any good moves. Its an important game.

MATTNo. Ill be sharp.

GARYAnd what about that feature? Hows that coming along?

MATTOh, its coming along fine. Should be done soon.

The waiter arrives with the food.

MATT (CONT'D)(eager to change the conversation)

Oh wow. Look at those meatballs. Listen, Gary, it was nice seeing you. Say hi to Joan for me. Boy, this smells good.

82.

Matt exaggeratedly smells the food and ignores Gary.

GARYAll right. You two enjoy. See you Monday.

MATTRight. See you. Lets dig in.

(to Nicky)Would you like some cheese?

Matt pours parmesan cheese and hands it to Nicky.

NICKYSo how do you know him?

Matt tries to keep the focus on the food.

MATTOh, hes a co-worker. Oh, these are so good. You have to taste this.

Matt cuts a piece of meatball with his fork and feeds it to Nicky. She tastes it.

NICKYMmmm. Theyre yummy. He thinks youre into football?

MATTWell, you know, I have to show the guys.

NICKYWhat was that about you not missing moves?

MATTYou know how guys are.

NICKYI guess.

(beat)What feature was he talking about?

MATTHe knows Im writing a book. Just asking about it.

NICKYReally. Whats it about?

83.

MATTOh, man, these meatballs are great. Hows your spaghetti?

NICKYIts great. So whats your feature about?

MATT(making it up as he goes along)

Oh, a man, and his misadventures, as he tries to find a long lost love.

NICKYReally? Its a romance?

MATTSomething like that. I dont like to talk about it. Dont want to jinx it. Not until Im finished with it.

NICKYYou dont let anyone read it?

MANNot while Im writing it. No, no. I dont feel comfortable sharing my work until its completed.

NICKYOh. Ok. I guess that makes sense.

Gary and his wife Joan walk past the table as they are seated. They all wave at each other. Matt zooms in on his food.

INT. GARYS OFFICE - DAY

Matt is standing and talking to Gary, who is seated at his desk.

MATTYou cant publish this Gary.

GARYBut this is great stuff. More women are getting into sports, and heres this huge, local, suburban cult..

84.

MATTIts not a cult.

GARYOk, club, cult, whatever. We have to run this. This is becoming a national trend, Im telling you.

MATTPlease dont.

GARYLook, I didnt tell you to mix business with pleasure. Thats your own mess. I told you to do a story on it, not join the damn thing. But, this is great stuff...should hook women readers.

MATTLet me fix things first with them, do this on the up and up. Then run the story.

GARYI cant do that Matt. You fix it later.

EXT. TOWNHOUSE - MORNING

Nicky is in her pajamas and disheveled. She slowly walks to curb and gets her newspaper.

INT. TOWNHOUSE - MORNING

CU on telephone ringing. The answering machine picks up.

MATT VONicky, hi, its Matt. I need to talk to you. Please pick up if youre there. Hello? Nicky. Dont be mad at me. Please call me back.

INT. KITCHEN - MORNING

Nicky is sitting at the table drinking coffee and flipping through the pages. She screams. CU on the headline, which reads, Desperate Notwives Turn to Football.

85.

NICKYOh my God. Oh my God. What is this? What?

NICKY (CONT'D)By Matt Dawson. Matt Dawson! Matt! Matt! Writer my ass!

She reads the paper out loud.

NICKY (CONT'D)...with playbooks of their own, they scour sports bars, leaving no bar stool unturned, looking for their latest score. Oh my God!

Nicky picks up the phone and dials.

INT. LIVING ROOM - MORNING

Susan picks up the phone.

SUSANHello?

NICKYIm trying to stay calm.

SUSANWhats wrong?

NICKYThe paper. Did you read the paper?

SUSANNot yet.

NICKYTurn to the front page, the FRONT page, of the local section.

Susan picks up the paper and flips to the page.

SUSANWhat the....thats us. Its about us. Look, its a picture of Svetlana in a bar! Howd they...?

NICKYLook who wrote this. Im going to kill him.

86.

SUSANMatt Dawson. Whos Matt Dawson?

NICKYMatt. Our Matt. The scum.

SUSAOur Matt is Matt Dawson? Oh, thats wrong! He said his name is Matt Daniels. Is this the same Matt?

NICKYWhat a liar! I have to go, I have some killing to do. Bye.

Nicky hangs up the phone. It immediately rings.

NICKY (CONT'D)Hello.

NICKY (CONT'D)Yes, this is Nicky Reynolds. Oh, yea, the one in the paper, but, I didnt...excuse me, what did you say? You want to join our club? You have several friends who want to join too? Well, were meeting again this Sunday, the Giants are playing the Redskins...sure. Come on. Ok, see you, bye.

Nicky hangs up the phone. It immediately rings again.

NICKY (CONT'D)Hello. Yes, this is Nicky. Really? Youre inspired? Thats great. Well, were meeting this Sunday.

SERIES OF DISSOLVING SHOTS

A) Nicky talking on the phone throughout the day.

B) Women reading the article and calling Nicky.

C) Women sharing the article with other women.

D) Phil showing off the article in his salon.

E) Women in the salon reading the article.

87.

INT. FRONT DOOR - DAY--LATER

Nickys doorbell rings. She looks through the door window and sees Matts face. She yells through the door.

NICKY Go away. Youre a liar.

EXT. PORCH - DAY

Matt speaks through the door.

MATTLets talk. I want to explain.

INT. FRONT DOOR

NICKYEverything you say is a lie. Why should I believe anything youre going to say, Mr. Matt Daniels I dont know anything about football, Im dating a female brut.

EXT. PORCH

MATTPlease let me in so we can talk. I begged Gary not to publish the article until I spoke to you. Please.

INT. FRONT DOOR

NICKYGary? Oh, you mean your CO-worker Gary? Youre an evil, bad, man. You lied, lied and lied some more. And you made a mockery out of our club.

EXT. PORCH

MATTI didnt lie. I just, was stupid. Please let me in so we can talk.

88.

INT. FRONT DOOR

NICKYNo, I dont associate with liars. I cant believe you did this!

EXT. PORCH

MATTLook, I understand how you can be mad at me. I shouldnt have lied. But I didnt mean to. I didnt know what to expect when I came to the group. It was an assignment, I was just checking it out. I never expected to meet you. I just got caught up and didnt know what to do. Im sorry. I was getting ready to tell you. But, Gary didnt want to wait to publish the article. I had to turn something in, to meet deadline. But I thought I could get him to hold off.

INT. FRONT DOOR

NICKYWell, you wrote it and gave it to him.

EXT. PORCH

MATTI had to turn something in. He twisted it around. That wasnt my angle. Im sorry. Can we start over?

INT. FRONT DOOR

NICKY Go away and leave me alone. Dont call me.

89.

EXT. PORCH

MATTPlease let me in. I want to make it up to you. Nicky. Nicky. OK.

Matt walks away. Nicky sits on the floor in front of the door. Shes sad and angry. Her dog, wearing a Giants sweater, jumps into her lap. She cries.

INT. BAR - EVENING

Matts sitting at the bar drinking a beer. He talks to Mike the bartender.

MATTGive me another shot.

Mike pours Matt a shot. Matt drinks it.

MIKEGive her some time. Shell come around.

Matts pathetic and sullen.

MATT(slurring)

Shes not coming round. She hates me. The only woman I meet whos into football, and I blow it. Im a loser, just like the Giants. They blew it, now I blew it. Shes really smart you know. She knows every single player. She knows the teams history. What woman knows that? Shes amazing.

Matt and Mike watch the game.

INT. TOWNHOUSE - DAY

Nicky, Susan, Rosa, Phil, Jackie and Svetlana are sitting in the den. Nicky is crying, they are consoling her. Her dog is next to her.

ROSAI tell you, you cant trust mens.

90.

NICKYI thought we had something. We got along so good. I cant believe this. What a jerk.

Nicky sobs uncontrollably.

SUSANHow could he lie like that? Hes a fake, phony, football man. Ugh.

PHILThats right. He doesnt deserve you. Im so glad he wasnt gay.

JACKIEHm hm hm. I can not believe that man. Coming in here and pretending he doesnt know anything about football, and hes a damn sports writer. Hm hm hm.

The doorbell rings. Roxie barks.

SUSANOh, Ill get it.

Susan answers the door. She greets three women.

SUSAN (CONT'D)Hi, come on in.

She leads the women into the den. The doorbell rings again.

SUSAN (CONT'D)Ill get it.

She opens the door and greets four more women. She walks them to the den. The doorbell rings again.

SUSAN (CONT'D)Jeez. Be right back.

Susan answers the door and greets two women. At least seven more women are walking up the sidewalk.

SUSAN (CONT'D)Hi. Come on in.

Susan walks outside.

91.

EXT. TOWNHOUSE - DAY

Susan walks down the sidewalk.

Susans POV

At least three dozen cars with women drivers and passengers are trying to park or ar