NTL FOOTBALL: TROY TRAVELS TO WAVERLY IN BIG CROSS-BORDER MATCH UP (August 29, 2025)

BY CHRIS MANNING
Northern Tier Sports Report
It was this week last year that became the catalyst for Troy’s run to the state title. They beat a much larger school in Dover, now they’ll travel north of the border to Waverly for a 6 p.m. kick-off on Saturday.

“Waverly is a state power in New York,” Troy coach Jim Smith said. “They have had every bit the success we have had over the past decade. They have a lot of experience returning this year including a big, physical line and their QB. They have a coaching staff with loads of experience and continuity. They have everything necessary for another state run. We will have to play a great four quarters of football this Saturday.” 

Troy’s coming off a big win over Sayre to open the season, while this will be the season opener for the Wolverines.

“We had a good opportunity to play a lot of kids last week,” Smith remarked. “That is imperative to build quality depth. We will need that to be able to endure a long season.”

As Troy gears up for another long season they know games like this are important for setting the tone.

“I feel this is a great opportunity for both of our programs,” Smith said. “It is really a win win regardless of outcome for both of us. To be able to do it early is even better. It will help us both to see where our focus on improving needs to be. The speed and physical nature of this game will be more equivalent of the state playoffs. The atmosphere will also be similar. The fact that it is so local makes it a special event. We did this type of game a year ago but had to drive to Delaware to do it. That game was imperative to our success and I feel that this one is the same. We are excited for this opportunity.”

KEYS TO THE GAME
Troy -  Slow down the Waverly passing attack. The Trojans have new cornerbacks this year and Waverly is certain to test them in multiple ways, so getting pressure on the quarterback is a must.
Waverly - Make Troy drive the ball. Easier said than done but it’s going to be a long night for the Wolverines if they let Mason Smith and Brendon Gilliland get the ball in space.

PLAYERS TO WATCH
Reed Palmer, Troy, DE - He was nearly impossible to block down the stretch of the state playoffs last year, he’ll need that type of pass rush against Waverly.
Cooper Robinson, Waverly, RB/OLB - One of Waverly’s top athletes, he’ll be called upon to make things happen against this Troy team.

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