Buster McGruder had it all in high school as a popular and talented tight end for the Odessa High Bronchos until the grudge match against Odessa Permian in '78, when he dropped a crucial pass. It was the beginning of a long streak of bad luck. Twenty years later Buster is after a grubstake by smuggling marijuana up from the Texas-Mexico border. Yet, when he befriends a mother and daughter running from an abusive husband and step-father his plans suddenly go awry. Now, he's also in danger as they escape by rafting down the mighty Rio Grande River. Confronted by their pursuers in Santa Elena Canyon, it's a fight to the finish and only one will survive a watery grave. Buster must summon all the will, courage and, yes, a haunting apparition if he is to win while making amends in Big Bend.