Former high school quarterback turned Chicago businessman, unofficially engaged to a senator's daughter. Falsely lured back to his Oklahoma hometown to finish a suspended rivalry game. He struggles with aging teammates, faces sabotage from his rival, and ultimately chooses his roots and high school sweetheart over his corporate life and engagement.
Brandy creates a brief romantic complication between Hodges and Jen.
Brandy, who has had a crush on Hodges since their teenage years, tries to seduce him at a party.
Their shared past intersects with Fish's present police duties.
Fish is described as Hodges's former classmate and arrests him outside the local bar after Hodges confesses to pushing Ronnie.
Tibbins compels Hodges to remain involved in the Turkey Bowl.
Judge Tibbins forces Hodges to help finish the game as a condition of release after his arrest.
Coach represents Hodges's football past and provides motivation for the comeback.
Coach was the former football coach of Hodges's team, and Hodges's group brings him from a nursing home to inspire the squad.
Their shared team history connects Hodges to the bar's fate.
Fat Jack is identified as Hodges's former teammate and owns the Badger Hole, whose future becomes part of the game wager.
Their rekindled romance influences Hodges's decision to remain in Putnam.
Jen is Hodges's former high school girlfriend, and both characters acknowledge that they still have feelings for each other.
Their rivalry forms the central sporting and personal conflict.
Hodges and Ronnie were opposing high school quarterbacks, and their rivalry continues when they prepare for the unfinished Turkey Bowl.
Their old friendship drives Hodges's emotional return to Putnam.
Mitchell is described as Hodges's high school buddy. He later confronts Hodges about distancing himself from their friends.
Explore the full interactive character relationship map of The Turkey Bowl