5 Key Factors Behind Central East High School Football's Explosive 2025 State Championship Dynasty

The Central East High School football program is not just a team; it's a perennial powerhouse, and the 2025 season cemented its status as one of California's elite. As of late 2025 and into the current date of December 17, 2025, the Bengals are riding the high of a spectacular championship run, having secured the CIF Division I-A state championship title, proving their "explosive offense" and "hard-style coaching" philosophy are a winning formula. The team’s dominant 12-3 season record culminated in a thrilling victory that underscored the program's commitment to excellence and its deep pool of talent from Fresno, CA, making Central East a must-watch entity in high school sports.

This article dives deep into the architecture of the Bengals' recent success, examining the legendary tenure of Head Coach Kyle Biggs, the record-breaking performances of their star athletes, and the foundation of their ongoing dynasty within the competitive Tri-River Athletic Conference (TRAC). From college commitments to historic scores, here is the ultimate breakdown of Central East High School Football.

The Architect of the Dynasty: Head Coach Kyle Biggs and Program Biography

The rise of the Central East Bengals to a state-level powerhouse is inextricably linked to the tenure of Head Coach Kyle Biggs. Taking the helm ahead of the 2016 season, Biggs quickly established a culture of success, transforming the program into a championship contender year after year. As of the 2025 season, he was entering his 10th year at Central, bringing his impressive career record to 107-26, including his two years coaching at Fowler.

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• Full Name: Kyle Biggs
• Current Role: Head Coach, Central East High School Football
• Tenure at Central: Began ahead of the 2016 season (entering 10th season in 2025)
• Career Coaching Record: 107-26 (includes time at Fowler and Central)
• Coaching Style: Known for his "hard-style coaching" approach, which emphasizes motivation and discipline.
• Playing Career: A local talent, Biggs was the Player of the Year as a quarterback at both Clovis High School and Fresno City College.
• Family Connection: His father, Bill Biggs, serves as an offensive line assistant coach on the Central East staff, contributing to the program's strong pedigree.
• Notable Achievements: Led the Bengals to their 5th Central Section Division I title in 9 seasons and secured multiple CIF State Championships.

Biggs’ blueprint is credited with building champions, and his peers recognize him as a rising star in the coaching fraternity. His leadership has ensured the Bengals remain a dominant force in the Tri-River Athletic Conference (TRAC) and the larger CIF Central Section.

The 2025 Championship Glory: CIF Division I-A State Title Recap

The 2025 season was a testament to Central East's resilience and offensive firepower, culminating in a dramatic CIF Division I-A state championship victory. The Bengals finished the season with an impressive 12-3 overall record, showcasing their ability to win high-stakes games against top-tier opponents.

The championship run included a dominant win in the Central Section Division I-AA title game, where Central East defeated rival Clovis High with an overwhelming score of 70-35 on November 21, 2025, securing the program’s 5th section title in nine seasons.

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The crowning moment came on December 13, 2025, when Central East outlasted Oxnard Pacifica to win the Division I-A state football title. This victory marked the program's second state championship in three outings, further solidifying the Bengals' place in state history. The explosive offense was on full display, overpowering the high-octane Tritons at Saddleback College.

The team’s success in this high-profile game was driven by phenomenal performances from its top offensive stars, who consistently delivered crucial touchdowns and yardage in the clutch. The victory was a perfect capstone to a season of hard work and dedication under Coach Biggs's guidance.

Star Power: The Record-Breaking Duo of Dippel and Smith

The core of Central East’s "explosive offense" in the 2025 season was the dynamic duo of quarterback Jelani Dippel and running back Brandon Smith. Their individual statistical achievements placed them among the state's most elite high school football players.

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Jelani Dippel: The Record-Setting Quarterback

As a junior, Jelani Dippel exploded onto the national scene, leading the Bengals' passing attack with remarkable efficiency and volume. His performance throughout the 2025 season was nothing short of historic.

• Position: Quarterback (QB)
• Year: Junior (Jr.)
• 2025 Season Passing Stats: 4,297 yards and 56 touchdowns (TDs).
• Championship Performance: Passed for 293 yards and accounted for three total touchdowns in the CIF D1-A State Championship.
• Recruiting Status: Expected to be a top recruit for the Class of 2027.

Brandon Smith: The Arizona-Bound Rushing Threat

Brandon Smith was the engine of the Bengals' ground game, showcasing a blend of power and speed that made him a state Player of the Year finalist and a highly sought-after college recruit.

• Position: Running Back (RB) / Safety (SS) / Athlete (ATH)
• Year: Junior (Jr.) / Class of 2026
• College Commitment: Committed to the University of Arizona (Arizona commit).
• 2025 Season Rushing Stats: Over 2,047 yards rushing and 29 rushing touchdowns (TDs).
• Championship Performance: Rushed for 144 yards and scored three touchdowns in the CIF D1-A State Championship.
• Additional Roles: A multi-sport athlete who also plays both ways as a defensive back (DB) or safety.

The Tradition of Excellence: Notable Central East Football Alumni

Central East High School's football success is built on a strong foundation that extends beyond the current roster, with numerous alumni having advanced to the collegiate and professional ranks, adding significant topical authority to the program.

The school has become a recognized pipeline for NFL talent, further elevating its profile on the national stage. Key notable alumni include:

• Xavier Worthy: A dynamic wide receiver currently playing in the NFL for the Kansas City Chiefs.
• Jaylon Johnson: A standout defensive back in the NFL for the Chicago Bears.
• Michiah Quick: Former collegiate player who also had a successful career with the Bengals.
• Hatari Byrd: Another notable alumnus who progressed to the collegiate level.
• Keith Hartwig: Former NFL wide receiver from the Class of 1971.
• Carter Hartwig: Former NFL defensive back from the Class of 1975.
• Courtney Griffin: Former NFL defensive player from the Class of 1984.

Looking Ahead: The Future of the Bengals Program

With Coach Kyle Biggs firmly in place for the 2025-2026 season and a roster featuring top-tier talent like rising senior Brandon Smith and quarterback Jelani Dippel, the Central East Bengals are poised for continued dominance. The program's success in the Tri-River Athletic Conference (TRAC) and its recent state titles have set a high bar for future teams.

The consistent development of offensive stars and the "hard-style" winning mentality instilled by the coaching staff suggest that Central East will remain a top contender in the CIF Central Section and a force to be reckoned with in California high school football for years to come. The program continues to attract major college recruiters, ensuring the talent pipeline remains robust and the Bengals' dynasty continues to grow.