SAN ANGELO, TX — When the San Angelo Central High Bobcats’ 2026 edition faced their first opponent of the season, the Lubbock Coronado Mustangs, Cats’ senior quarterback Micah Smith led his offense to a scoring drive right out of the gates. The score came with 10:07 left in the first quarter from 15-yards out. With the PAT, it was Central 7, Lubbock Coronado 0.
The Cats-Mustangs’ 6:30 p.m. matchup was not actually a game but rather a scrimmage played at San Angelo Stadium.
Cats’ Head Coach Mark Smith in his third year outlined three DNA traits on this year’s 2026 team—smart, physical, and punishing.
Coach Smith now in his third season, stated in an interview this team is mature, handles their business, a hard work ethic, focused, they show up early, hold each other accountable, and know what it takes to take care of their bodies to be prepared to play, etc.
Two other factors Smith mentioned that will heavily contribute to this year’s ball club, continuity, and consistency is what made last season’s 8-3 record, and first playoff berth since 2021 a success.
Should the Bobcats be among the top four teams in District 2-6A to make the playoffs it would be a second consecutive season. Central has been picked to finish third behind Midland Lee Legacy, and the Odessa Panthers.
During the first two seasons, Coach Smith credited much of the success Central had on the field was due to having the same coordinators on both sides of the ball which is essential from a foundational perspective.
The results on the field speaks for itself as players have learned the system which allows them to focus more on playing fast without having to think.
Coach Smith’s football philosophy is based on how District 2-6A plays, which is set the line of scrimmage from the inside out.
With a 2026 squad which includes six starters on offense, and five on defense, “the team is headed in the right direction,” said Smith.
The Bobcats’ first step to get the season headed in the right direction is a non-district home opener vs the Abilene High Eagles on Friday, August 28, 2026. Kick-off from San Angelo Stadium is at 7 p.m.
Below is the 2026 Central High Bobcats’ schedule
Aug. 28   Abilene High
Sept. 4   at Mansfield Lakeridge
Sept. 11 Abilene Cooper – Homecoming
Sept. 18   El Paso Montwood
Sept. 25   Belton
Oct. 2   Bye
Oct. 9   at Midland Greenwood
District 2-6A games at 7 p.m.
Oct. 16   Midland Lee*
Oct. 23   at Odessa High*
Oct. 30   Midland High*
Nov. 6   at Odessa Permian*