NTL FOOTBALL: TROY WELCOMES WELLSBORO FOR FRIDAY NIGHT TILT (2025-10-02)

BY CHRIS MANNING
Northern Tier Sports Report
Troy (5-1) will welcome Wellsboro (3-3) with a 7 p.m. kick-off this Friday as they look to continue their NTL title defense.

Both teams come playing their best football, with Troy on a 4-game win streak, while Wellsboro is 3-1 over their last four.

“We have been fortunate to have gotten a lot of underclassmen in this year,” said Troy coach Jim Smith. “They have seen a lot of playing time. We need to build depth, which is very important for any chance of a long postseason. We are encouraged with the younger guys, and hope they can continue making an impact.”

At this point in the season Troy is looking to improve at the margins.

“We are fine tuning our skills and plays,” Smith said. “Everybody is getting better, and there is less room for error.”

The Hornets are coming off a 35-22 loss to Athens, but were tied at 14 in the first half.

“Wellsboro is improving every week,” said Smith. “They were in a great four quarter game last week with Athens. They have a good coaching staff that has been around for a long time, and are very crafty. Their offense will spread the field and stress any defense. We will need to tackle well in space, and remain focused as to not blow coverage. It’s important we control the clock, and limit possession. We are excited for the challenge.”

KEYS TO THE GAME
Wellsboro - Create turnovers. Stopping Troy in a 4-down situation may be too much for the Hornets, but if they can get some turnovers it will give them some extra possessions and momentum. Troy doesn’t turnover it over much, either, but might be Wellsboro’s best chance to slow them down.
Troy - Ground and pound. Wyalusing was able to move the ball on Wellsboro a few weeks ago, and were undone by turnovers. Troy’s at their best when they control clock and wear down teams.

PLAYERS TO WATCH
Marek Mascho, Wellsboro, RB/WR - Mascho is a multi-threat athlete. He is averaging 4.1 yards per rush and has two touchdowns, while on the receiving end he has 10 catches for 185 yards and two scores.
Micah Pesesky, Troy, C - Pesesky anchors their offensive line, and is one of the best linemen in the district. If they’re going to play ball control they’ll do it behind him.



Print Friendly Version