Jacob Crain powers Franklinton’s confidence in another run to the Division II Select state final

FRANKLINTON, La. — Nick Saltaformaggio believes Franklinton will be back in the Division II select state title mix, and senior quarterback Jacob Crain is a big reason why.

“He brings everybody to a different level. He really does,” said Franklinton head coach Nick Saltaformaggio.

Crain was charged with the 4th quarter fumble in the final minute of last year’s state championship loss to Cecilia, and that play has motivated Jacob to elevate every aspect of his game.

“I think about it every day. That’s just the kind of person I am, the competitor. Even though it might hurt to think about it, it’ll drive me throughout the day. And it’s kind of a constant reminder of what I’m working for,” said Franklinton senior quarterback Jacob Crain.

Jacob Crain is working to build on a junior season in which he eclipsed 2,400 yards passing with 24 touchdowns.

His focus this offseason has been footwork and mastering difficult throws to feed a talented arsenal of weapons, while building his strength to be a bigger part of the Demons’ rushing attack, which replaces a 2,000-yard running back in Sy Austin.

“Even though we lost four starting linemen, I feel like the offense is going to be right back on track. Once we get started, no one’s going to be able to stop us,” said Crain.

Jacob Crain has a ton of confidence in his team and his game, but what he doesn’t have is a ton of college offers.

There is currently interest from schools like Tulane, Nicholls, Southeastern, and Central Arkansas, but Coach Salt believes there should be more.

“I’ve never seen a guy compete at the level that he competes at day in and day out. Not just in football, but in the classroom, in our community. He’s a leader in our community and at practice every day. Practice for him is like a game. I mean, he competes at an extremely high level, and I just think the world of him. I think somebody needs to give him an opportunity, because I still believe this. There’s something to be said about winners. You can talk to me all you want about arm strength and size, and I’m watching kids get offers and get commitments, and I’m like, all this kid’s ever done is win and win at a high level,” said Saltaformaggio.

Jacob’s Division I development also receives a boost on weekends when he drives from Franklinton to Central to work out with WGNO sports analyst Lester Ricard.

Lester played quarterback at Tulane and still holds the Green Wave’s single-game passing touchdowns record.

He trains several quarterbacks throughout South Louisiana.

Franklinton will open the 2025 regular season on Friday, September 5th, at Amite.