Sports-lovers everywhere rejoice: high school football season is here.

This is “week zero,” or the first week of 11 for the prep season, and our local teams are back on the gridiron.

Whether you’re planning to go to a game or two or 10, chances are good you will be impacted in some way by those Friday night lights.

And even if you don’t actually attend a game, there’s another way for you to get in on the season. The return of football means the return of another annual attraction: the Franklin County Times’ Play and Win football picks contest.

We know many of you are faithful yearly participants, but for those of you who haven’t taken a stab at it before, here’s the scoop:

Each week we print a lineup of games for YOU to choose which teams will be the winners. Our selection typically includes all Franklin County teams – barring a bye week – plus a selection of area match-ups.

All you have to do is circle your choice or, if you’re taking advantage of online version of the contest form, select the circle next to your choice.

In case we need a tiebreaker, we also choose one game and ask you to predict the score.

Other than that, you jot down your name, phone number and address – and that’s it! Enter your submission for a chance to win a $25 gift card.

Every week the contest form can be found on page B8 of the paper and on our website at www.franklincountytimes.com – just click the “Football Play and Win” button on the homepage.

It’s easy and fun – and what’s fall without football?

The contest is made possible in part by local sponsors, and we encourage you to support these businesses.