Dennis Phillips publisher@robconews.com Robertson County News Franklin enters the second round of the 2025 UIL Texas Football State Championships with momentum, efficiency, and a statistical profile that marks the Lions as one of the most potent offensive forces left in the Class 3A Division I bracket. After rolling through Halletsville behind a commanding offensive performance, Franklin now turns its attention to the Orangefield Bobcats, a disciplined and balanced 9-2 squad that finished second in their district and arrives prepared for a physical, ground-heavy playoff fight. Franklin’s triumph over Halletsville showcased an offense that is not only explosive but ruthlessly efficient. The Lions churned out 374 rushing yards on just 36 carries, averaging more than ten yards per attempt. The ground attack overwhelmed Halletsville’s defensive front and allowed Franklin to dictate tempo throughout the night. Their physicality at the point of attack, paired with exceptional downfield blocking, produced chunk plays early and often, setting the tone for a complete four-quarter performance. The Lions also controlled the field through sustained drives, finishing the game with 30 first downs, compared to Halletsville’s 19. They succeeded in staying ahead of the chains and consistently forcing defensive adjustments. Whether attacking between the tackles or breaking runs to the perimeter, Franklin’s backfield demonstrated the kind of depth that becomes increasingly valuable as playoff competition intensifies. Every carry carried the threat of a breakaway, and every possession chipped away at the opponent’s defensive stamina. As the Lions prepare for Orangefield, their offensive identity appears fully sharpened. Statistical comparison between the two teams underscores the challenge facing the Bobcats, who average 39.3 points per game but face a Franklin squad averaging 54.8 points, including dominant fourth-quarter production. Franklin’s scoring profile grows stronger as the game progresses, with averages of 13.3 points in the first quarter, 12.8 in the second, 15.5 in the third, and 16.3 in the fourth. That rising curve is a reflection of conditioning, depth, and a coaching staff that adapts with precision as the game unfolds. Orangefield presents its own offensive strengths, entering the matchup with solid scoring numbers—11.0 points in both the first and second quarters, 8.9 in the third, and 7.6 in the fourth. While the Bobcats show consistency early, the statistical contrast in second-half production stands out. Franklin outpaces Orangefield significantly after halftime, posting more than double the Bobcats’ average fourth-quarter output. In postseason play, where adjustments and endurance often decide outcomes, Franklin’s late-game surge provides a strategic advantage. Defensively, Franklin’s season-long production strengthens their case as a contender built for deep playoff advancement. Through ten games, the Lions have recorded 1,005 total tackles, including 303 solo stops and 702 assisted tackles, forming one of the most reliable tackling units in the region. Their ability to swarm the football and eliminate yards after contact has been a defining theme of their season. With 41 tackles for loss, 20 sacks, and 34 pass breakups, Franklin has repeatedly forced opponents into long-yardage scenarios and minimized explosive plays. Orangefield’s disciplined rushing attack will challenge the Lions’ front seven, but Franklin’s defensive track record suggests a unit well-prepared for the task. The Lions’ blend of speed in the secondary and physicality along the line offers a balanced counter to Orangefield’s methodical, run-oriented approach. Meanwhile, Franklin’s ability to generate pressure without sacrificing coverage assignments presents a key advantage in limiting sustained drives. As Round 2 kicks off, both teams arrive with strong resumes, but the statistical landscape leans in favor of the Lions. Franklin’s high-powered offense, unmatched second-half scoring, and season-long defensive consistency position them as a formidable hurdle for the Bobcats. Orangefield’s grit and efficiency earned them a 9-2 record and second place in their district, but the Lions present a level of balance and explosiveness that few teams have solved this season. With momentum building and a clear identity established on both sides of the ball, Franklin steps into this playoff matchup with a chance to extend a season defined by physicality, discipline, and elite-level execution. If statistical trends hold, the Lions are poised to make a strong statement in Round 2 and continue their pursuit of another deep run in the 2025 postseason.