Danville
Coach: DJ Crane
Danville heads into 2026 with a clear focal point on offense and defense in sophomore playmaker Jake Crane. Coach DJ Crane calls Jake “a great player” and points to his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. As a sophomore, Jake rushed for 1,001 yards and passed for 475 yards, accounting for 12 total touchdowns. He pairs that production with a 3.75 GPA, reflecting the program’s emphasis on success in the classroom as well as on the field.
Offensively, Danville will continue to rely on Jake’s dual-threat skill set. His rushing and passing numbers show he can carry the ball and distribute it effectively, giving the offense flexibility in how it attacks opponents. With that kind of production already on his résumé as a sophomore, the expectation is that he will remain a central figure in the Little Johns’ offensive game plan.
Defensively, Jake was also one of Danville’s most active players last year. He finished with 82 total tackles, underscoring his willingness to be physical and his ability to find the football. That type of impact makes him valuable on both sides of the ball and reinforces his importance to the overall team identity. Danville will look for him to bring the same toughness and effort on defense that he shows on offense.
Even with the natural changes that come from year to year, Crane believes Jake’s combination of production, versatility and academic strength gives Danville a strong foundation. If he continues to progress, the Little Johns expect him to help drive the team’s success in 2026.
