BY CHRIS MANNINGNorthern Tier Sports Report
Troy (2-1) will head back to the Valley this week as they take on a hot Athens (3-0) team with a 7 p.m. kick-off Friday.
Both teams are coming off lop-sided wins last week, which the Trojans are using to build up their roster.
“We have been focusing on building depth and playing a lot of players, and rotating them in different positions and spots on the field,” said Troy coach Jim Smith. “The more flexibility we have, the better our chances for a long season. We have young players we are working on getting up to speed, and focusing on the small details and fundamentals in each position.”
The Wildcats have racked up 152 points so far this season as they face their toughest test yet.
“Athens seems to have good team speed,” said Smith. “They seem aggressive defensively and are capable of making the big play on offense. They appear physically more mature in places. You can see they have been working hard on their strength. We are excited for the test.”
KEYS TO THE GAME
Troy - Contain Connor Davidson. Easier said than done but everything starts with Davidson on Athens’ offensive side of the ball.
Athens - Contain Mason Smith. Another easier said than done. Smith racked up over 200 yards rushing last week as the Trojans got back on track.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Mason Smith, Troy, QB - He’s gotten more comfortable under center, as shown from last week, and can break open a play as good as anyone in the league.
Gage Marmor, Athens, WR - He only had one catch last week, but it was for a 65-yard scoring strike. He doesn’t need a lot of touches to have an affect on the game.
