Something Against You (Grey's Anatomy)
"Something Against You" is the seventh episode of the twelfth season of the American television medical drama Grey's Anatomy, and the 252nd episode overall. Written by Andy Reaser and directed by Geary McLeod, the episode aired on the American Broadcasting Company in the United States on November 12, 2015.
The episode centers on Meredith Grey and Jo Wilson as they struggle to assist a long-term patient in need of a transplant. Tensions rise between Callie Torres and Meredith, as Callie's professional judgment becomes clouded by her personal feelings for Penelope "Penny" Blake. Meanwhile, Jackson Avery and April Kepner attempt to repair their fractured marriage, and Maggie Pierce faces difficulties working with new cardiothoracic attending Nathan Riggs. Additionally, Alex Karev teaches the interns about “doc-knockers”, while Arizona Robbins considers re-entering the dating scene. Owen Hunt grapples with a resurfacing trauma from his past, leading to a PTSD relapse.
Upon its initial airing, "Something Against You" drew an audience of 8.02 million viewers, ranked #7 in viewership, and earned a 2.2/7 rating in the 18–49 demographic. It received mixed reviews from television critics, with praise for the performances of Pompeo, McKidd and James Pickens Jr..
Plot
The episode opens with a voice-over narration from Meredith Grey, emphasizing that vulnerability is not a weakness but an essential part of strength and growth.Meredith takes Richard Webber’s advice about working with Penelope "Penny" Blake, but she begins going too easy on Penny when a longtime elderly patient arrives for a kidney transplant. During the patient's evaluation, a large osteosarcoma is discovered on his skull, which puts the transplant on hold. However, Jo Wilson realizes that the kidney donor can also donate part of his skull, effectively removing the cancerous tumor and solving both issues.
Meanwhile, Miranda Bailey and Ben Warren start arguing over Jackson Avery still living with them. Bailey withholds sex to pressure Ben into kicking Jackson out of their home. Elsewhere, Maggie Pierce becomes upset upon learning that Bailey hired Nathan Riggs, a new cardiothoracic attending, without consulting her. Owen Hunt is also angered by Riggs' arrival, hinting at a shared and troubled past between the two.
Callie Torres attempts to confront Meredith about neglecting her responsibility to properly teach Penny, but Penny steps up for herself, asking Callie to let her fight her own battles. She also insists that Meredith be tough on her, so she can learn and grow as a surgeon.
Meanwhile, Alex Karev teaches the interns about “doc-knockers”, and Arizona Robbins, eager to get back into dating, enlists Richard as her wingman during a trivia night.