Cards get first taste of action

The Columbus Cardinals got their first taste of game action for the 2026 season in a scrimmage against Columbia Thursday, Aug. 13, in Columbia.

With the regular season approaching, the scrimmage gave coaches an opportunity to evaluate players in game situations while giving the Cardinals their first chance to compete against another team.

The Cardinals worked through several scenarios, including redzone situations, third-and-long and punt coverage, allowing coaches to evaluate how players responded before Week 1.

Scrimmages are full contact, but coaches for both teams emphasized keeping players healthy. With a long season ahead, the focus was on getting meaningful repetitions while giving players the best opportunity to be available when the regular season begins.

Columbus Head Coach Matt Schobel spent the scrimmage moving around the field to evaluate both his offense and defense and determine where players might best fit as the Cardinals continue preparing for the season.

While players were being evaluated, Schobel encouraged them to play loose and be themselves.

He wants his players to become comfortable in their roles while still executing at a high level. Rather than putting pressure on them to perform during the first scrimmage, Schobel asked his players to give their best effort and show the coaching staff what they can do.

The Cardinals will get another opportunity Thursday, Aug. 20, when they host the Sealy Tigers for a 7 p.m. scrimmage in Columbus.