Cole Francis Leads Rams Into Nationals with Poise and Purpose 

Resilience, teamwork and a refusal to settle has defined the Texas Wesleyan Football season — and it has all led to one big moment: Nationals. The Rams earned their playoff bid through determination, late-season victories and point differential, proving that preparation, trust and effort can carry a team far. 

Senior quarterback Cole Francis says the key to the Rams’ success isn’t just talent on the field — it’s the team’s culture. “Our coaches talk about doing our 1/11,” he explained. “There are 11 guys on the field, but not everyone touches the ball. The key is doing your role, whatever it is, and doing it to the best of your ability. When we play for each other, not for ourselves, that’s when we succeed.” 

The season had its share of challenges. Injuries tested the depth of the roster, and every week the team had to adjust and adapt. “We had to work with what we had,” Francis said. “Keeping chemistry and trust alive, no matter who was in, made all the difference.” Even in high-pressure games, the Rams stayed focused and selfless, a mindset that carried them through tough losses and ultimately set them up for Nationals. 

For Francis, motivation goes beyond wins. “I play for the seniors on this team,” he said. “For some of them, this is their last season. I want to make sure everyone gives everything they have, because it could be anyone’s last game at any moment. And I want to make my family proud — my dad has helped me get to this point.” That personal drive combines with the team-first mentality that defines the Rams’ approach. 

The playoff berth came down to the wire. After a loss to Ottawa, the Rams needed a specific outcome to claim their conference spot, and it all came together thanks to determination, teamwork, and a little luck. The result: a postseason opportunity that the team has been ready for all year. “When they announced it, we were hooting and hollering,” Francis recalled. “It was incredible. We knew we were deserving, and now we have the chance to make history.” 

Nationals represent more than just games — it’s the culmination of a season built on trust, preparation, and unity. Francis hopes fans remember this team for its grit and adaptability. “We lost some key players from last year, but this team has done an amazing job building its own identity,” he said. “I hope people remember that we’re fighters — a team that has worked hard, stayed together, and represented Texas Wesleyan with pride.” 

While the focus is on the team, it’s impossible to ignore Francis’ role in keeping the offense steady and leading by example. Off the field he keeps things simple: spending time with family, relaxing with friends and recharging whenever he can. But when he steps onto the field, that calm energy turns into sharp focus, guiding the Rams toward every play, every drive and now, every challenge at Nationals. 

As Texas Wesleyan heads to the national stage, the Rams carry with them the lessons of the season — trust each other, embrace every role, and give everything on the field. For Cole Francis and his teammates, Nationals isn’t just a destination — it’s the reward for a season of hard work, teamwork and unshakable dedication.