Two intriguing matchups open up the high school football season tomorrow evening, assuming that Hurricane Earl cooperates.
As far as matchups, however, they couldn't be any different.
In one, the defending Division 1 and Division 2 New Hampshire state champions clash when Salem plays host to Bishop Guertin while, in Division 5, Windham will play its first-ever varsity game at home against Sanborn, which remains a young program.
The most interest, and rightfully so, will be at the showdown in Salem. Bishop Guertin opened last season with a convincing win at Pinkerton, but this should be a much tougher test.
BG has two talented backs in Mike Kelly and quarterback Steve Cuipa, but it graduated 30 seniors from last year's powerhouse and may need time to come together. Salem, despite looking uninspired at times in the preseason, has more talent surrounding star backs Max Jacques and Jerickson Fedrick.
Because Bishop Guertin traditionally boasts speed on defense, particularly against the run, Salem may need to throw at times, but that'll be fine with Salem quarterback Matt Cannone.
PICK: Salem 21, Bishop Guertin 7
TOMORROW'S GAMES
Sanborn (0-0) at Windham (0-0)
Although Sanborn didn't win a game last year, it returns some experienced upperclassmen who will make the difference and spoil Windham's debut as a varsity program.
PICK: Sanborn 20, Windham 6
Souhegan (0-0) at LONDONDERRY (0-0)
It's tough to pick a team from Division 3 to prevail over a Division 1 opponent, Souhegan has always been solid and it looked good in the preseason.
PICK: Souhegan 16, Londonderry 14
SATURDAY'S GAMES
Timberlane (0-0) at PINKERTON (0-0)
Nick Lawrence is a quality back for the Owls, but Timberlane needs work on the offensive line and on defense.
PICK: Pinkerton 23, Timberlane 7
Season record: 0-0
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