Elkin's in real rough shape right now. Varsity is the worst I've ever seen them in my 10 years; their JV team will be where the wins for their program will come from this year. Varsity I don't see them getting a win unless North Wilkes chokes again (it could happen,) or something crazy ala 2014 happens. JV I see them winning 2 possibly. They had 2 okay JV teams the last couple years. Not as good as the title days or even when Strickland's class came thru but they worked hard and won some games on JV. Don't know why they are having issues on varsity; either those JV kids didn't come out to play or just didn't develop well. They had an awful start; that's as much due to who they faced as they played a mix of 4 physical and finesse teams from Surry Co and Forbush. The only team they played close was Forbush. If they had down 1A schools like North Stokes or South Davidson they may could have had a win or 2 on their margin by now.
Starmount's the favorite on paper due to having a tough schedule and almost winning week 2, but Elkin always plays hard during this week. We all counted them out 2 years ago and they won. Their JV team beat Starmount last year; that doesn't mean they will win this year but these juniors have done it before. I think it will depend on two main things: 1. How Elkin handled their bye week and if they changed anything, and 2. If Starmount can play hard and play their system well.
I think Starmount will do it but you never know with this series.
