Tigers travel to face Keys Cougars

The Central Tigers, fresh off a trip to the Class A state quarterfinals that is coming off the firstever perfect 10-0 regular season in 2023, will get their first chance to be in a game-like situation this preseason when they travel to meet the Keys Cougars at 6 tonight.

“I think we’re really anxious,” Central coach Jeremy Thompson said. “You get through your second week of practice, you’re ready to line up across from somebody else and get that live action you need. At that point, you kind of see your strengths and weaknesses where you’re at two weeks in (to practice). You only have two weeks left before Week 1 (season opener). Week 1 is a very important scrimmage to really see things you have to work on.”

Tonight’s road scrimmage also will give the Tigers a chance to go up against somebody besides themselves in daily practices.

“I want us to play physical, and I want to see how fast we fly (to the football on defense),” Thompson said. “We’re going to be simple on both sides of the ball. At this point, we know we have to play fast and physical, so that’s the most important part.”

• • • TO GET THERE — Take Interstate 40 west to Vian. Take Oklahoma State Highway 82 north to South Indian Road. Turn left on South Indian Road to Keys Cougar Pride Road. Turn right on Keys Cougar Pride Road to football stadium.