The Ben Lomond Scots opened their 2026 campaign with a narrow defeat, falling 41‑33 to North Sevier in a game that swung back and forth.
Early Struggles and a Late Surge
A slow start left the Scots trailing 28‑0 late in the second quarter, but a burst of energy before halftime cut the gap to a manageable margin.
Kru Boyle sparked the comeback with a long reception from Madden Bentley that resulted in a halftime touchdown, pulling the Scots within striking distance.
The momentum continued into the second half as Dashawn Gordon added a short rushing score, narrowing the deficit to 28‑13, while Jaylen Milton later found the end zone on a late run that brought the score to 34‑25 with just five seconds left in the third quarter.
Coach Ty Smith praised the team’s effort, noting that the players showed a willingness to fight and that the close calls — onside kicks, defensive stops, and a missed return touchdown — reflected a competitive spirit.
Despite the loss, the Scots’ special teams provided moments of excitement, but penalties and unforced turnovers, including two fumbles that led to North Sevier scores, ultimately prevented a comeback.
Smith emphasized that execution will be the key to turning those near‑misses into victories, and the coaching staff is already focusing on improving discipline and defensive consistency as the season progresses.