After a long offseason, the boys of fall are ready to kick off.

“I’m just excited to be back with the boys playing on the field under the lights on Friday night," Darien senior captain Wes Scallen says. "I’m super excited."

Week 1 starts with a marquee matchup between Newtown and preseason No. 1 New Canaan next Friday night.

“We want to be No. 1 one at the end of the year, not in the beginning," Rams longtime head coach Lou Marinelli says with a laugh. "I’ve been doing this for 45 years and I still get butterflies."

Some people say the FCIAC is the best conference in the state.

New Canaan is coming off its third straight state championship, while Darien is hoping the third time's the charm.

“This year, we’re probably going to fly a bit more under the radar," blue wave senior captain Jack Hanley says. "I think our team just needs to stay humble, keep our heads down and work hard."

Quarterback Nick Weil returns under center for Staples high school.

"I know our first game is away," the senior captain says, "But we’re excited just to be anywhere playing football."

Longtime assistant Matty Jacowleff was promoted to head coach of the wreckers in the offseason.

“The anxiety of wanting to make sure you’re as prepared as possible," Jacowleff says. "With the hope and excitement knowing you’re about to embark on something that’s so special."

There will be high school football games every Friday night from now until about December when the CIAC playoffs begin.