NTL FOOTBALL: TROY HEADS TO SAYRE FOR SEASON OPENER (2025-08-21)

BY CHRIS MANNING
Northern Tier Sports Report
The defending state champions hit the road to start the season as they travel to Sayre for a 7 p.m. start on Friday night.

The Redskins came out swinging in their match-up last year, but the Trojans still hung 84 on them as they pulled away for the win.

“We are excited to get going,” said Troy coach Jim Smith. “We have been working hard since we finished this past December.”

The Trojans got a workout when they scrimmage Class 4AAA Jersey Shore last weekend.

“We came out of our scrimmage with Jersey shore healthy which was the main thing,” said Smith. “They are a great opponent, a state power in class AAAA . They are talented and physical. We came out with a lot of positives and many things to improve on. It certainly helped to remind us what higher level football is all about, and the effort and focus it takes to compete. It certainly helped to prepare us for sure.”

Being so early in the season Troy is focusing on themselves going into the game.

“Our focus will be on improving us,” said Smith. “It’s tough to know much about our opponent from watching a Week-1 scrimmage. We will prepare our team like we do every week, but finding tendencies, go to players and team identity is very difficult. We will be focused on the little things, limiting penalties, turnovers and ball control. We are excited for the season to begin.”

KEYS TO THE GAME
Troy - Get going from the get go. Sayre returned the opening kick-off for a score last year, and got another touchdown on a big pass play. The Trojans will likely come out of the gates a little bit harder.
Sayre - Keep the ball as long as possible. Wyalusing was able to hang with Troy for nearly three quarters last year by playing keep away - it’s probably Sayre’s best chance to stay in the game.

PLAYERS TO WATCH
Spencer Martin, Troy - Wherever he lines up he’ll be one to watch. He had two touchdowns in the district win over Southern Columbia, and will now get the chance to shine with the first group.
Karter Green, Sayre, RB - Green is moving from QB to running back and is the most experienced and talented skill player for the Redskins.



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