Tigers Drop Season Opener to Owls

The Macon County Tigers lost their season home opener to the Smith County Owls.

The Owls came from behind to grab a 20-14 road victory.

The Tigers came out playing well. With 5:42 left in the 1st quarter Marshall Avera attempted a 24 yard field goal which was wide left. Following a defensive stop the Tigers then scored on a 21 yard touchdown catch from Seth Carlisle to Tyler Carlisle. Avera’s PAT was good and with 0:33 left in the opening period Macon led 7-0. After another defensive stop Seth Carlisle ran it in from 22 yards out. Avera’s PAT was good and Macon led 14-0 at the half. The Tigers were inside the 20 of the Owls one other time in the half and failed to get any points from the drive.

The Owls received the second half kick-off and grabbed all the momentum. The Owls first score came on a 41 yard pitch and catch to make the score 14-7 with 8:47 left in the third. Penalties stopped the ensuing Tiger drive and Smith County scored again on a 1 yard run tying the game at 14 with 3:31 in the 3rd quarter. Following another Macon drive that was hampered by penalties, the Owls would take the lead on a 5 yard touchdown to take the lead 20-14. Macon would have possession two more times in the contest but penalties would continue to plague the Tigers. Final score Macon 14 Smith 20.

Quarterback Seth Carlisle had 181 yards rushing and one TD while going 5-16 for 51 yards and one TD. Matt Austin rushed for 80 yards as well. Tyler Carlisle had 21 yards receiving and one TD. AJ Simpson and Tyler Swindle led all defenders with 8 tackles each.

Macon County will travel to face Westmoreland on August 28th. Game time is scheduled for 7 pm.  (Photos by Julie Collins)