As the summer heat settles over the Central Valley, the Central East Bengals are already plotting another deep run in the 2026 campaign. Fresh off a CIF Division I‑A state championship that saw them outscore Pacifica‑Oxnard 42‑28, the team returns 15 starters and enters the new season with one of the most experienced rosters in the Central Section.
Coach Kyle Biggs, who has built a reputation for setting lofty goals, says the bull’s‑eye on his squad has grown larger. "We know every opponent will be looking to knock us off," he explained, emphasizing that preparation will be the key to defending their title.
A Bull’s‑Eye Back on the Bengals
The offensive side of the ball returns eight starters, anchored by senior quarterback Jelani Dippel, who will once again direct a unit that also features three seasoned linemen. Wide receiver Bayon Harris, athlete Xavior Jones, defensive back Jontae Della and linebacker Lonzo Jenkins give the Bengals a blend of speed and physicality on both sides of the ball.
Adding depth through the transfer portal, the Bengals welcome junior running back Ehis Idoni and wide receiver Relando Jefferson, both of whom are expected to contribute immediately. Their arrivals come as the team looks to replace the graduated production of Fresno Bee Player of the Year Brandon Smith.
Defensively, eight starters return, allowing Biggs to maintain continuity on that side of the field. The coaching staff believes the chemistry built over the past year will translate into stronger performances against a schedule that includes traditional rivals such as Clovis West, Roosevelt and San Joaquin Memorial.
The non‑league slate opens on August 14 with a matchup against Pinecrest Academy Sloan Canyon in Henderson, Nevada, before the Bengals travel to face Grant‑Sacramento, Oak Ridge, Turlock and Liberty‑Bakersfield. Each of those opponents presents a different challenge, but Biggs says the team is focused on taking one game at a time.
With high expectations and a roster that blends experience and fresh talent, the Central East Bengals are poised to make another push for the championship. The upcoming season will test their resolve, but the coaching staff remains confident that the work done in the offseason will pay dividends when the lights turn on.