Jim Treadway disappoints his father in not making the boat crew at college while his freshman brother, Ralph, makes the team and upholds the family tradition.  Both boys are smitten, however, by the charms of Carol Fleming, but Ralph is handicapped by hazing and strict training rules.

On the eve of the big college race, Jim takes Carol to a dance and leaves Ralph burning with jealousy; deciding to brave official disapproval, Ralph goes to the dance and takes a jazzy young blonde to a roadhouse.  Jim follows and ejects his brother after a fight and is himself found with the girl. 

After being acclaimed a hero, Ralph confesses that he is to blame for Jim's disgrace, and Carol finds happiness with the older brother.