CORINTH -- Every Lake Dallas fan knows about the contributions of quarterback James Franklin to the Falcons’ success over the past couple of years.

But the Lake Dallas program hit new heights in 2009 and head coach Michael Young said before Wednesday’s signing ceremony that it was due to some unsung players.

“We’ve had skill kids before, and guys like James are one in a million, but this class put us over the top with our guys up front being as good as anybody’s,” Young said.

Franklin, who enrolled early at Missouri, was not in attendance, but three of his protectors were, as well as two defensive linemen.

“James was a big part of it [success] and our other skill kids were, too, but we were solid up front on both sides, and that always gives you a chance to win,” Young said.

The Falcons’ signing class started with tackle Daryl Williams, who was ranked No. 202 in Scout.com’s national Top 300 players, regardless of position.

Williams signed with Oklahoma and said he was just glad the entire recruitment process was over after sifting through offers from 11 schools.

“It’s a relief,” Williams said. “All the stress is gone. No more coaches calling me. It feels really good.”

Young said Williams possessed a unique skill set for a player his size (6-5, 270), which will allow him to play for the Sooners, and play early.

“I think he’s one of the best athletes of big kids you’ll find,” Young said. “I think he should be higher rated than what he is. I can’t imagine many offensive linemen being better than him. He’s going to be ready to compete when he gets there. I think the guys up there might even be surprised what they’re getting when he gets there.”

The Falcons also saw two other offensive linemen sign, as right guard Bradley Chapman signed with Southwestern Oklahoma State and left guard Jason Litt inked with McPherson (Kan.).

The other Division I signing was defensive end Josh Tauaefa, whose brother, Isaac, is a defensive lineman at UTEP.

Tauaefa got an offer from UTEP, as well as Houston, Louisiana Tech, UNLV, Colorado State and Portland State, but something about Minnesota drew him to be a Gopher and have a chance to play in the Big Ten.

“I went to two places. I went to UTEP and I liked it, but then when I went to Minnesota I just felt that’s where God was calling me to be, so I made my decision 100 percent,” he said. “I’d love to be with my brother, and that’s what I want, but if that’s [Minnesota] what my life plan is supposed to be, then so be it.”

Tauaefa (6-2, 265) started his career at Lake Dallas as a freshman wide receiver before putting on 55 pounds by the middle of his sophomore year and moving to the defensive line.

“He has worked hard to build himself and worked extremely hard in the weight room,” Young said. “It’s a great accomplishment for him to get to where he’s at physically because he’s really had to work to get there.”

Defensive tackle Gerald Pleasant also signed to play college football at Fort Scott (Kan.) Community College.

ADAM BOEDEKER can be reached at 940-566-6872. His e-mail address is aboedeker@dentonrc.com.