WEIRD old game this American football, innit? One guy passes, a few others run, while the rest of them have a bit of a cuddle and pummel each other witless. All dressed in some smashing tights.

Still, it has its followers, and numerous literature, television programmes and films. This one is based on supposedly the greatest book ever written about the sport, penned by a bloke called Buzz. Now you don't get more American than that.

Friday Night Lights is your basic coach-gets-college-football-team-into-shape-for-season-as-town-expects-great-things routine. But it's also very good indeed, and those with a passing fancy for the sport should look no further.

Lyndon Hogg