Looking ahead: TRM vs. Excel

Published 10:39 am Thursday, October 5, 2017

T.R. Miller hosts Excel High School Friday night for its 2017 Homecoming game, a 3A region 1 matchup.

TRM comes in on a two game losing streak, and looks to bounce back against a team that it has outscored 349-41 over the course of the teams seven meetings.

Excel is currently 1-4, and is coming off of a 17-14 loss in overtime last week to J.U. Blacksher.

TRM is 7-0 all-time in the two teams meetings, including a 41-8 win last year. Michael “Soup” Campbell led the way with 132 yards and two touchdowns on six carries, including two touchdown runs that went for more than 50 yards. Joshua Jolly also had 53 yards and a touchdown on two receptions.

The Tiger defense forced five turnovers in the game; three fumbles and two interceptions.

So far this year, the teams have faced two common opponents, including Cottage Hill and Mobile Christian. TRM defeated Cottage Hill (40-34), while Excel lost (17-6). Mobile Christian defeated both teams.

Excel has only averaged 6.7 points against 3A teams this year, so it is an enticing matchup for a TRM defense that is looking to bounce back after allowing 33 and 35 points in its last two matchups.

Forecast: It’s Homecoming. TRM hasn’t had a three game losing streak since 2007. TRM has to be hungrier than ever after a tough loss last week. Things don’t look good for Excel. Expect a big game from the three-headed monster that makes up the Tiger running game, (adding Jolly into the mix.)

Prediction: 41-14 TRM

Gametime is 7 p.m. while Homecoming festivities begin at 6:30.

GO TIGERS!