Recently named the starter for three-time defending Division 1 state champion Pinkerton Academy, junior Ryan Simpson leads the Astros into Holman Stadium (7 p.m.) for a crossover showdown with Division 2 juggernaut Bishop Guertin.

Simpson, who edged out standout sophomore Luke Somers in a heated camp competition, says bring it on.

"I don't know much about them, but I hope they bring everyone back," said Simpson. "I want to face the best competition that we possibly can."

Simpson, a 6-foot, 210-pounder, takes over the reins with plenty of notoriety.

First, there are the bloodlines. Older brother Sean earned Eagle-Tribune Offensive MVP honors for the Astros as a wide receiver back in 2004, scoring 14 TDs.

And then there are the tall tales about Simpson's uncanny arm strength.

Teammate Ben Proulx boasted once, "He throws the ball 60 yards ... from one knee."

Sixty yards? From one knee?

On the eve of the biggest start of his life, Simpson came clean on that one.

"I warm up throwing every day, starting on one knee," said Simpson. "One day, we just kept backing up further and further. I did hit a kid at 55 yards away ... in the chest."

Simpson, partially because of Sean's great career, knows the Pinkerton football legend. He's the latest in a long line of talented Astro signal-callers.

"I look at this like I have to be one of the leaders on this team, by example," said Simpson. "All I can say is I'm prepared to do whatever it takes to help lead this team to another state title."

Big brother, now at Plymouth State, didn't offer any crazy advice for Ryan as the tonight's tilt looms closer.

"He always tells me, and he's done it forever, just to be yourself and have fun out there. He's my best friend and a great athlete. I always listen to what he has to say."

The Astros should have their work cut out for them against BG, which lost to Exeter 14-13 in last year's title game after winning it all from 2004-06.

Pinkerton's Colby Verge and Chris George are still nursing injuries and most likely won't factor in this one.

"There's still a ton of talent on this team, with Eric Guinto, Matt Mangano and Christian Diaz in the backfield. They are real good, very dangerous, unbelievable athletes. It's a privilege to be in the field with guys like that,' said Simpson.

Let the Ryan Simpson Era and the 2008 high school football season begin.