Behind the Playbook: Around the State Coach Spotlight

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Patrick Browning (Edgewater)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Browning was a bold hire for Edgewater — formerly head coach at Pike Road High School in Alabama, where he went 66–7 in six seasons, winning a 5A state title. He brings a pedigree of building programs from the ground up, and Edgewater has started 6-0 under him this season. Already earned the Coach of the Week award from the Tampa Bay Bucs Foundation.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Antonio Thomas (Auburndale)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A homegrown product, Thomas played at Auburndale before returning as head coach. Known for being a motivator and teacher who stresses offseason work and accountability. The Bloodhounds are responding this year, showing a mix of veteran leadership and rising stars. Good start to the season with some solid competition. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jesse Chinchar (St. Petersburg Catholic)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Chinchar recently took over the Barons' program after stints as offensive coordinator and formerly head coach at Clearwater Academy International. His offensive approach and ties to quarterback development have already stirred excitement in Pinellas County with an undefeated 5-0 start.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Chris Harvey (Clearwater Central Catholic)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Harvey is a consistent name in Pinellas-area football. His ability to maintain CCC's status as one of the state's top programs reflects strong culture and recruiting. The Marauders are 6-0 right now with all the ingredients for another 1A state title run.&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Brian Baddock ([player_tooltip player_id='1640270' first='St.' last='Augustine'])</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A historic program with one of the richest traditions in Florida, [player_tooltip player_id='1640270' first='St.' last='Augustine'] is thriving under Brian Baddock's leadership. The Yellow Jackets are off to a perfect 6-0 start, with statement wins over Bolles, Nease, and Columbia. Baddock has blended the school's legacy of toughness with modern offensive and defensive systems, making this team battle-tested and dangerous heading into the postseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Dylan Potts (West Boca)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Potts has quickly elevated West Boca into one of South Florida's fastest-rising programs. At 4-1 through Week 7, the Bulls are showing improved discipline and a stronger culture under his leadership. With a talented coaching staff, upgraded facilities, and momentum, West Boca is now recognized as a top 10 team in the state. Potts' energy and relatability as a young coach have clearly resonated with his players.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jamelle Murray (Atlantic)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Since taking over, Murray has made Atlantic one of the most consistent programs in Florida. He hasn't lost more than two games in a season, and through Week 7 his squad is 5-0 with a statement win over Norland. Murray's teams thrive on defense, built on strong fundamentals and physical play. The Eagles are once again positioned to make a deep playoff push.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jerrime Bell (Mainland)</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Bell has Mainland rolling in one of the state's toughest schedules. Sitting at 4-1 through Week 7, the Bucs have grinded out close wins against powerhouse Cocoa and Georgia's Coffee High, showing toughness and composure. Bell's steady leadership and experienced staff have Mainland looking like a team that can challenge anyone come postseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->