Ian Sampson inspired an sharp upturn in fortunes from the Cobblers after taking permanent charge last season and the manager has been in upbeat mood over his summer transfer dealings.
The bookmakers make Town 14/1 shots to win what looks a wide open division where Bradford City and Gillingham, now with Bayo Akinfenwa in their ranks, are the slight favourites to top the table.
Many Cobblers fans will be taking the chance to combine a trip to the seaside with watching the opening game of the season but for Sampson and his players it's down to the serious business.