Central Faces Final Non-District Game on the Road

SAN ANGELO, TX — Fresh off a bye week, the Central Bobcats put their two-game win streak to the test as they travel to Midland to face Greenwood and close out non-district play.

Coach Mark Smith talked about the bye week before previewing the matchup with Greenwood at his weekly press conference on Tuesday at San Angelo Stadium. Watch that press conference above.

"A lot was accomplished during the bye week," Smith said. "It was really restful on some of the days. We let the guys sleep in, but later we got three really good days of quality work in. We also were able to spend some extra time in the training room to take care of our bodies. This is a very physical, violent game, and I think you have to address that. You have to give them time to get their legs back underneath them to get ready for a good push."

The Bobcats entered their bye week after a dominant showing against Belton, where Central controlled the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball and won 52-29.

In that contest, running back Zey Johnson set the Central school rushing record with 351 yards and four touchdowns, along with a receiving TD. The Bobcats look to continue that same success against Midland Greenwood.

Central (3-2) vs. Midland Greenwood (3-3)

• When: Friday, Oct. 9
• Where: J.M. King Memorial Stadium, Midland
• Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Greenwood is an interesting matchup for the Bobcats. As a 4A Division I school in the same district as the Lake View Chiefs, this is not a matchup that most would see in an average football season. Out in West Texas, scheduling can be difficult, and this week gives the Bobcats one final opportunity to fine-tune the offense and defense as Central prepares for the start of District 2-6A.

Expect Johnson to continue where he left off behind the Bobcats' big offensive line.

On defense, Central will have to contend with Greenwood's potent passing attack led by Andrick Rodriguez. In his first year under center, Rodriguez seems to get better and better every week. Friday should be an excellent opportunity for the secondary to improve. Greenwood is talented at the skill positions and can break a play open at any point in the game.

Smith had nothing but good things to say about Rodriguez and the offense.

"They will play with some pace and tempo," Smith said. "They get on the ball and snap it fast. And they have good players; the quarterback has done a great job. We've seen improvement from him each week. He's coming in and replacing a three-year starter, so there haven't been many other snaps at quarterback out there in a long time. He's a dual-threat guy. He plays with his feet and his arm and does a great job of getting the ball to his playmakers."

Most importantly, the Bobcats need to stay healthy. If Central can secure a win while staying in top condition, the Bobcats have a great chance to make strides as soon as district play begins at home next week against Midland Lee.