Dennis Phillips publisher@robconews.com Robertson County News The Franklin Lions closed the 2025 football season with one of the most balanced, explosive and disciplined team performances in Class 3A, powered by a relentless rushing attack, steady senior quarterback play and a veteran defensive unit that kept the Lions competitive deep into the postseason. With 6,249 yards of total offense, including an imposing 5,494 rushing yards, and a defense anchored by some of the district’s top tacklers, Franklin once again demonstrated the physical identity the program has built its reputation upon. Offensively, the Lions relied on the steady leadership of senior quarterback W. Anderson, who delivered an efficient and composed season under center. Anderson completed 39 of 67 passes for 755 yards and nine touchdowns, throwing only one interception across 13 games. His decision-making and ability to manage the pace of the game allowed Franklin’s rushing corps to thrive, while key performances — including multi-touchdown games against Cameron and Rusk and a 115-yard outing against Columbus — showcased his reliability in crucial moments. As a graduating senior, Anderson leaves behind a legacy defined by poise, accuracy and leadership. Franklin’s run game, long considered one of its greatest strengths, was among the most formidable in Texas high school football this season. The Lions averaged more than 420 rushing yards per game, a rare feat made possible by an exceptionally deep backfield. Senior B. Jackson led the team with 889 rushing yards, highlighted by standout efforts such as 135 yards against Legacy and 122 yards against Cameron. His consistency and physical running style made him a dependable anchor of the offense. Sophomore S. Januse added 695 rushing yards, with 100-yard games against Lorena and Cameron showcasing his blend of speed and toughness. Junior A. Johnson contributed 610 yards, including a 165-yard outburst against Troy, while also adding 120 yards receiving, making him one of Franklin’s most versatile offensive threats. One of the season’s biggest breakout performers was senior R.J. Fulton, who delivered 835 rushing yards, 127 receiving yards and a team-leading 104 points. Fulton’s 10 rushing touchdowns, two receiving scores and ability to generate explosive plays on the perimeter made him one of the most dangerous offensive weapons in the district. Senior J. Atchley (692 yards) and junior K. Griffin (307 yards) helped round out a backfield that consistently rotated fresh legs and punished opposing defenses. In the receiving game, A.J. Phillips led the Lions with 382 yards and five touchdowns, providing consistent production and a reliable target in play-action situations. His 118-yard performance against Cameron was one of the highlight outings of the season. Fulton, Johnson and Januse also contributed key receptions throughout the year, ensuring the Lions remained effective when they chose to attack through the air. While Franklin’s offense drove much of the statistical spotlight, the Lions’ defense delivered a season equally worthy of recognition. The unit was anchored by senior linebacker Cooper Ezzell, who amassed a staggering 127 total tackles, along with five tackles for loss, five forced fumbles and an interception. His ability to dissect plays and track down ball carriers made him the heartbeat of the defensive front. Senior outside linebacker R.J. Fulton proved indispensable on both sides of the ball, recording 101 tackles, nine tackles for loss, four sacks and three pass breakups. Senior Carter Johnson added 80 tackles, while junior linebacker Ridge Schoeneman posted 71 tackles and two takeaways, strengthening Franklin’s interior presence. In the secondary, junior Ryan Smitherman contributed 74 tackles and six pass breakups, showing impressive instincts in both run support and coverage. Sophomore defensive back Aaden Johnson emerged as one of the team’s brightest young talents, totaling 30 tackles and a team-high three interceptions. Franklin’s defensive front also featured several standout contributors. Senior Camden Neel delivered 51 tackles, six tackles for loss and five sacks, while sophomore lineman Ryder Klein added 83 tackles, eight TFLs, three sacks and a forced fumble, positioning him as one of the top returning defenders for 2026. As the Lions look toward next season, they do so knowing they must replace the leadership and production of departing seniors including Anderson, Ezzell, Fulton, Neel, Carter Johnson, Jackson and others who formed the backbone of this year’s squad. But with rising talent such as Klein, Schoeneman, Aaden Johnson, Griffin and Januse returning, Franklin remains well-positioned to continue its tradition of hard-nosed football and championship-caliber play. The Lions close the year with pride in their accomplishments and optimism for the future — a blend built on the same foundation that has carried Franklin football forward for generations.