Bobcat Offensive Line Set to Pave the Way in 2018

SAN ANGELO, TX-- When the Central Bobcats take the field for the 2018, it will be with a highly seasoned offensive line protecting their backfield.

Any quarterback will tell you they’re only as good as their protection up front.

Central quarterback Maverick McIvor is no different.

After Central’s spring game on Friday, McIvor said he “couldn’t wait” for the 2018 season because the Bobcats return four out of their five starters up front from a year ago.

“It’s been amazing having those four,” said Bobcat offensive line coach Regan Crim. “We really miss Jarrett Hill at center. He was a big time leader for us. These other guys have stepped up.”

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Returning for the Bobcats, ahead of their first year in District 3-6A, are a trio of seniors in Gunner Couch, Oscar Nino and Rowdy Garza, as well as junior Kurt Klausner.

“I’m really excited because it’s the new district and I feel like we’re going to dominate even more.” Garza said.

Couch, Garza and Klausner each stand out at 270+ lbs each and Nino uses his arm length at 6-foot-1 to man the left tackle spot and keep blitzing defenders away from Central’s stacked backfield.

“I’m excited. We’ve got a lot of experience up front,” Couch said. “That’s a big thing. Last year, we were real young and we started off slow. This year, everyone knows what to expect.”

Couch recently picked up his first Division I offer and second offer overall from the Air Force Academy in Colorado. His first offer came from Division II outfit the University of Texas-Permian Basin.

“I’m excited to get the ball rolling,” Couch said of his recruiting. “Hopefully [the Air Force offer] gets the ball rolling.”

The 6-foot-2, 280-pounder missed spring practices due to injury, but will start at center for the Bobcats in 2018.

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“It hasn’t been great,” Crim said referring to missing Couch in the spring. “But it’s kind of been a blessing to let some other guys develop and solidify some backup roles for us.”

Garza, who has yet to receive an offer, is also getting plenty of looks by hitting the trail for various showcase camps to get his name out there and hone his craft. The 6-foot-4, 284-pounder will anchor the left side of the line as a guard.

“It’s almost unreal,” Garza said of his upcoming senior year. “I remember my first year of pee-wee football and now I’m here.”

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With the UIL’s re-alignment announcement on Feb. 1, the Bobcats were placed in District 3-6A, which features Dallas-Fort Worth schools Euless Trinity, Haltom City, Hurst L.D. Bell and Richland Springs Richland along with Abilene and Weatherford.

The Bobcat o-line is ready for that challenge.

“I’m excited to play those DFW teams,” Couch said. “It’s going to test us, but I’ll take my boys against anybody.”

Another part of what makes the Bobcat offensive line so great is their relationship with their quarterback.

“[Maverick’s] my boy,” Couch said. “He’s one of my best friends. We hang out every day and he’s a stud. He’s going to ball out.”

With a big smile, Garza said that McIvor thanks the offensive line with food every Thursday before games as well.

The only position the Bobcats need someone to step up at is the right tackle spot.

“We’ve got two dudes fighting for that spot,” Couch said. “I think we’re going to be just fine up front.”

The Bobcats will take the field again in August with fall practice opening up before hosting Killeen Shoemaker in the season opener on Aug. 31.