Here are my reasons for optimism-
1. Snow pack to the north and cold in place
2. Cold (frozen) ground and sun angle are ideal for quick accumulation
3. Majority of the precipitation falls at night. Easier to stick.
4. Confluence should prevent it cutting too far north/west
5. The air is dry out ahead and will allow for evaporative cooling.
My early forecast-
Smokies and Balsams- 4-8 inches all snow
Asheville- 2-4"
Northern Foothills- McDowell, Burke, Caldwell- 2-4" ending with some sleet
Southern Foothills- Rutherford, Cleveland- 1-3" some sleet and ZR