Bryant University is new to the Coastal Athletic Association Football scene this year, and the Bulldogs still are searching for their first conference win.

A season ago, Monmouth was second in scoring (32.5) and yards per game (431.5) in the Coastal Athletic Association, but that didn’t translate to victories. Only New Hampshire scored more points per game (37.5) and had more yards (434.4), but that didn’t help Wildcats either.

The elite programs of high school football were finally able to be let loose this past weekend, and did they ever put on a show.

The adage Iron sharpens iron is popular in football circles for conveying how strengths and similarities bring out the best in athletes. It's a phrase St. John's College High School coach Pat Ward invoked when discussing the 2021 preparation of his team, and it applies to a high-profile, season-opening matchup with Don Bosco Prep.