In The Middle, fall is a time for corn mazes, football booster clubs and, of course, the Birchwood Avenue block party. The biggest event of the block party is always the Birchwood 500, a three-lap race around the block on a riding mower. You’ve probably seen highlights on ESPN. But the block party is still a week away. And a lot can happen in a week when it comes to Frankie Heck and family.

The school counselor is concerned because Brick has a hard time making friends. Mike thinks sports would be a good way to help his boy socialize and Brick says he likes basketball. Time to hit the hardwood. Brick is a natural on the basketball court. A natural disaster. He doesn’t dribble. He doesn’t shoot. He doesn’t pass. What Brick does do is take a seat in the stands (during the game) to ask Mike if he can take him to a book signing.