Stay (Friday Night Lights)

"Stay" is the sixth episode of the fourth season of the American sports drama television series Friday Night Lights, inspired by the 1990 nonfiction book by H. G. Bissinger.

According to Nielsen Media Research, the episode was seen by an estimated 3.66 million household viewers and gained a 1.0/4 ratings share among adults aged 18–49.

The episode received extremely positive reviews from critics, who praised the performances and character development, although some were divided over the ending.

Julie (Aimee Teegarden) tells Matt (Zach Gilford) that she has tickets for the Austin City Limits Music Festival, but she hesitated in mentioning it due to his father's death.

Vince (Michael B. Jordan) also tries to mend his past with Jess, but Virgil (Steve Harris) refuses to let him get involved again with his daughter.

(Jeremy Sumpter) and other Panther team members, and Stan (Russell DeGrazier) is forced to intervene to prevent the conflict from escalating.

Eric Goldman of IGN gave the episode a "good" 7.9 out of 10 and wrote, "While there was still plenty of angst to behold, 'Stay' certainly wasn't as heavy as 'The Son' – and nor would I want it to be.

"[10] Allison Waldman of TV Squad wrote, "All in all, a good episode - but I want to see Matt come back or call home in a future show.

"[12] Matt Richenthal of TV Fanatic wrote, "It was understandable the show didn't wanna reach into the heavy, emotional well for Saracen two weeks in a row - and any episode would be a let down after "The Son" - but this ending felt too ambiguous.

"[13] Todd Martens of Los Angeles Times wrote, "On the bright side, he’ll be back for at least two episodes this season, and will remain, like other major characters who left, part of the Dillon narrative.

"[14] Television Without Pity wrote, "Lyla comes back to town just long enough to remind herself how much she loves Tim Riggins and how much it won't ever work between them.

"[15] Minka Kelly submitted the episode for consideration for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series at the 62nd Primetime Emmy Awards.