RallyNorth.net

Less than three weeks ago swarms of local football players took the field for the first time this calendar year in what they hope will be a quest that extends into December.

To this point, there has been little reward for the premature end to summer. Hot, painful practices. Sweat-covered jerseys. Heavy, shoulder-crushing pads. Helmets that make the heat seem 20 degrees warmer.

OVERVIEW: As one coach put it, "The two usual suspects should be the top two teams again."

With a seemingly never-ending feeder systems, both defending champion Masconomet and Wilmington indeed appear poised to battle it out for the top spot in the large once again.

OVERVIEW: Greater Lawrence Tech stock continues to rise, but the Reggies have one giant hurdle left in their march up the league ladder.

"We haven't really proved ourselves yet," said coach Tony Sarkis. "I'd like to think we belong."

DIVISION 1 OVERVIEW: It's tough to dispute two-time defending champ Pinkerton as the team to beat. Although, Salem took every step but the last one with Pinkerton the last two seasons, and the Blue Devils return a backfield full of talent. Don't shed a tear for the Astros, who may need time to re-load but carry a 14-game win streak into the season. Londonderry is out to prove its 2006 return to the playoffs was no fluke. The addition of transfer Ryan Griffin, a 6-6, 210-pound quarterback/tight end who has been offered a scholarship by UNH, should pay big dividends. Nashua South, Concord and Manchester Central lead the hunt for the final playoff spot.