Playoff time is fast approaching, but the state's top team will be without its head coach this Friday night.

New Canaan High School says longtime football coach Lou Marinelli will miss the first game of his 50-year coaching career due to "precautionary measures."

Those close to the program say Marinelli has been feeling sick recently, but school officials say he is in good health and expects to be back on the sidelines shortly.

In a text message Friday afternoon, Marinelli says he's working to get back to his team as soon as possible.

The school says longtime assistant coach and current defensive coordinator Chris Silverstri will serve as New Canaan's acting head coach in Marinelli's absence.

The No. 1 Rams head to Westport Friday night for an FCIAC clash with No. 10 Staples.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7p.m.