Interview: 1,000-Yard 3-Star 2021 Mississippi WR Xavier Franks Starts Season Off Hot
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The duo of quarterback Chandler Pittman and receiver Xavier “Zay” Franks were unstoppable a year ago. As Pittman was slicing through 3A Mississippi defenses with 3,000-plus yards in the air and 26 touchdowns, Franks accounted for a third of those yards hauling in 70 passes for 1,001 yards with 13 scores going up on the board. The pair of three-star recruits are back at it in 2020 downing Collins 34-0 in the season opener. Franks (6-2, 193) was in midseason form finishing with six receptions for 121 yards and two touchdowns.
As Franks heats up the field for Magee High School, college coaches are burning up his inbox along the recruiting trail. Eleven programs have offered thus far with more to come as the connection between the dynamic Class of 2021 duo continues to grow stronger.
Interview
Zay, the Trojans started off the season in style rolling Collins 34-0. How did it feel to be back on the field walking off with a big win?
It felt great. During the pandemic we waited to play, but it felt great to be on the field with my brothers again.
You went off in the game hauling in six passes for 121 yards with two touchdowns. What was working so well for you leading to the big game?
I was moved from outside to slot, for the team. After a couple of weeks of practice, I got comfortable with it. I feel more comfortable in the slot now. My route running, I am running my routes better and getting more separation, was a difference in our first game.
The chemistry you have with your quarterback cannot be denied. How have you and Chandler Pittman worked over time to build that bond on the field?
We’ve been close since way back. I was not a football player then, I played basketball, but I started working out with him a lot. Last year, I wanted to play. When I got at it, I got better at it and it clicked. We trust each other. It is easy with him as my quarterback.
What are some of the routes you are running within the offense?
I run corners, posts, and hitches; all the basic routes unless they want a double move route.
Last season your athletic talents were on full display, especially in the red zone on jump balls and corner routes. What did you feel were the strengths to your game then?
Attacking the ball. I always attack the ball. It is not as much about my route running. Also, I have very strong hands. Once I grab it, it is not coming out. I’m not saying speed, I have a long stride.
After work put in over the offseason, with one game under your belt, where are you showing the biggest improvements on the field?
Like I said earlier, my route running. I knew I had to get better with that this offseason. It means more to me now. Football means more, I make every play count like it is my last.
Where all are you lining up on the field this season?
This season I am at punt returner, receiver, and free safety.
Transitioning to some defense, how is it going playing free safety?
I like it. I like defense. Defense is fun. When you stop someone, it is fun. I love playing free safety right now.
The stat line you put up last season was amazing, what do you want to accomplish this season on the field?
My goal is to have 20-plus touchdowns and 1,500 yards. I haven’t set any goals on defense. My main goal is to see us go to state.
This week you guys get Natchez (0-1), what kind of game are you expecting from them?
I was expecting a competitive game, but on Monday one of our players tested positive for COVID-19 so they pushed us back two weeks. We are quarantined.
Sorry to hear about that. I hope your teammate has a quick recovery.
Thank you.
Moving to recruiting, how many offers do you have?
Eleven.
Franks’ Offer Sheet: Alabama State, Alcorn State, Arkansas State, Central Florida, Louisiana-Monroe, South Alabama, Southern Miss, Texas State, Toledo, Troy, and Tulane
Going back to last season before they shut the campuses down in March, did you get to take any visits?
Yes, I went to ULM (Louisiana-Monroe) and Arkansas State.
How did the ULM trip go?
It was great. I had never been to a college campus by myself, it was great for me.
And the Arkansas State visit?
I hadn’t been to any other colleges before that, their facilities were really nice. I have not seen anything else like that yet.
Did you get to take any virtual visits this summer?
I did one with UCF. I liked it.
If visits were allowed this weekend, are there any schools you’d like to see?
I want to visit UCF and Tulane.
Zay, thanks for your time today. Wishing you guys a great season once everything picks back up.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Josh Milton/Franks family; Xavier Franks