Engine B&S 190CC sputters but won't start

I have a 2010 Troy-Bilt with a 190cc, 6.75HP Briggs - electric start. This is an auto choke model without a priming bulb. It was hard starting last season and finally decided to not start at all, by starter or by pull. I tore it down this past month. Valves are good. Some cylinder scoring. Key is intact. New head gasket. Carb cleaned and rebuilt. Engine has good compression, spark and is getting fuel. Full tank, tried to get it to fire with starting fluid. Sputtered and spit fuel from intake side of carb but also some smoke from exhaust. It seems like it wants to start but will not catch. What else do I need to look for? TIA.

Engine B&S 190CC sputters but won't start