Smoky Mountain Conference picks, week 11; last week 3-0, season 27-8
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T.C. Roberson at Robbinsville
T.C. Roberson returns for its second game since Hurricane Helene, as the Rams travel to the Big Oaks. Robbinsville is coming in with a two-game winning streak, but once again they have a very good non-conference opponent scheduled.
My heart tells me to pick the Black Knights in this one, but the Rams may just be too much for them. T.C. Roberson by 7.
Hayesville at Andrews
The last time these two teams faced each other, Andrews snuck by the Jackets 7-2 on Sept. 6, but Andrews was healthy then. They are not healthy going into this game.
Even with the injuries, the Wildcats do still have home-field advantage. This one is tough to call, but even with the injuries I’ll take the Cats at home. Andrews by 3.
Cherokee at Murphy
This game has Smoky Mountain Conference title implications. With a Cherokee win, the Braves will claim a piece of the title. If Murphy wins, they are the outright conference champs.
Cherokee has a very good offense, but the Bulldogs have had problems stopping a good offense. The Braves run a balanced attack on offense and has the conference-leading quarterback in passing, who is also adept at running the ball.
This one could end up being a scoring fest, but I still like the Bulldogs. Murphy by 10.
J.R. Carroll is a staff correspondent for the Cherokee Scout who has followed Smoky Mountain Conference football for 40 years. His picks column will run weekly during the football season. Email him at jcarroll8760@gmail.com.