The changes you suggested...going out 64 from Franklin shortened it by 50 miles. If you want the original route plus Blood Mountain I would do the below:
https://goo.gl/maps/tSjyCoAyGiP2
Then where you see that marker that says 'Wolf Pen Gap'. Just round trip Wolf Pen from there, you won't be sad. But stick with it, half way across you will wonder WTF I sent you down that road, it doesn't get great until you go across the crappy bridge by a river and a small park.
There is a big gas station on the corner, you can't miss it.
You really don't want to skip 348 man, I promise.