Division II Non-Select State Championship Preview: Franklinton vs Cecilia

December 13, 2024

by: Vincent Cacioppo // GeauxPreps.com Managing Editor

Distance To Caesars Superdome: Franklinton (71.1 miles), Cecilia (122.7 miles)

#1 Franklinton Demons (12-1)

Head Coach: Nick Saltaformaggio (2nd season)

State Finals History: 1 State Title – 2010 (4A); 3 State Runner-Up finishes – 2009 (4A), 1981 (3A), 1969 (1A)

Road To The Dome:

Regional: Beat No. 16 West Feliciana, 42-21

Quarterfinals: Beat No. 8 Lakeshore, 41-40

Semi-Finals: Beat No. 5 Iowa, 35-29

The Skinny:

The Franklinton Demons are back in the spotlight, earning the #1 seed and a trip to the state finals under Head Coach Nick Saltaformaggio in just his second season. With one state title (2010, Class 4A) and three runner-up finishes, the Demons are eager to recapture state championship glory.

Franklinton’s road to the Prep Classic has been a testament to their grit and determination. After a 42-21 victory over West Feliciana in the regional round, the Demons showcased their resilience in a nail-biting 41-40 victory over Lakeshore in the quarterfinals. The nail-biting continued as Franklinton, trailing by a touchdown with under two minutes remaining, scored with just over a minute left to edge out Iowa and advance to the state championship game.

The Demons’ offense has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging 38.3 points per game. Quarterback Jacob Crain leads the charge with his dual-threat ability, supported by the versatile Conner Magee, who excels as both a running back and wide receiver. Anchoring the offensive line is All-District selection Beau Webb, providing the protection and openings needed for Franklinton’s explosive plays.

Defensively, the Demons are anchored by linebackers Elisha Hart and DJ Anders, who bring physicality and leadership to the field. Tight end Dalton Freeman adds a key dimension to both the offensive and defensive units, contributing as a reliable target and a blocker.

Franklinton’s season has been marked by signature victories over Pine, Jewel Sumner, Lakeshore, and Loranger. These battles have prepared the Demons for the intensity of the Prep Classic.

As Franklinton prepares to vie for their second state title, they carry with them the pride of the Franklinton community. Under Saltaformaggio’s guidance, the Demons stand ready to make history once again and bring home the Division II Non-Select State Championship.

Playoff Averages: 39.33 points per game, allowing 30 points per game

Signature wins: Pine (Sept. 20); Jewel Sumner (Oct. 3); Lakeshore (Oct. 11); Loranger (Nov. 1)

No. 18 Cecilia Bulldogs (11-3)

Head Coach: Dennis Skains (8th season)

State Finals History: 1 State Title – 1995 (3A); 3 Runner-Up Finishes – 2023 (DII), 1993 (3A), 1992 (3A)

Road To The Dome:

Regional: Beat No. 15 Pearl River, 50-29

Quarterfinal: Beat No. 2 Lutcher, 49-41

Semi-Final: Beat No. 6 Plaquemine, 55-35

The Skinny:

The Cecilia Bulldogs are making their return to the Prep Classic, determined to finish what they came so close to accomplishing in 2023. After a heartbreaking loss in last year’s Division II state championship, Head Coach Dennis Skains and the Bulldogs are back with a vengeance. With one state title to their name (1995,3A) and three runner-up finishes (1993, 1992, 2023), Cecilia is no stranger to the big stage.

Dennis Skains’ Cecilia squad is not your normal #18 seed. The Bulldogs have been firing on all cylinders, outscoring their playoff opponents 211-145 and averaging nearly 53 points per game. Quarterback Diesel Solari, widely regarded as one of the best quarterbacks in the state, has been the driving force behind Cecilia’s high-powered offense. With his leadership and playmaking ability, Solari has guided the Bulldogs to a string of impressive victories, including a 50-29 win over No. 15 Pearl River in the regional round, a hard-fought 49-41 triumph over undefeated Lutcher in the quarterfinals, and a 55-35 win over No. 6 Plaquemine in the semifinals.

Cecilia’s potent offense, paired with a defense that has found ways to step up in key moments, has positioned them for another shot at the state title. The Bulldogs will look to cap off their remarkable playoff run with a state championship. As they head to the Prep Classic all eyes will be on Diesel Solari and the Bulldogs as they chase a long-awaited state championship.

Playoff Averages: 52.75 points per game, allowing 36.25 points per game

Signature wins: St. Martinville (Sept. 6); Northside (Sept. 20); Notre Dame (Oct. 4); Livonia (Nov. 1)