Pinellas Park: Pinellas Progress report

Over the next couple of weeks, the Times will offer a comprehensive report on each team and its progress during spring practice.

By Joe Smith
Published May 27, 2007

Coach: Matt Lance (second season)

2006 record: 1-9

Key losses: ATH Dominic Bell, WR Quinton King

Key returners: QB Jesse Redden, DL Jesse Woods, RB Reggie Green, RB Carlton Green

Key newcomer: LB Chris McKinney

Spring skinny: The Patriots showed flashes of offensive potential in their 23-21 spring classic loss to Keswick Christian. Redden was effective on bootlegs and rollouts, with speedy targets such as Reggie Green and Carlton Green capable of making big plays. The running game will be by committee, with sophomore-to-be Oraian Bentley and Devin Vaughn in the mix. Between Woods, a rising D-I prospect, and McKinney, the Patriots have two run-stuffers. But they're also vulnerable up front, as the much-smaller Crusaders were able to rack up rushing yards.

Gamebreaker: Carlton Green. The 6-foot, 160-pound sophomore-to-be showcased his skills against Keswick Christian, leaping for a touchdown catch while throwing another (53-yard toss on a double-pass).

Key questions: The Patriots typically have talent, but will they maintain their discipline and take care of the ball?

Schedule: Aug. 31: at Countryside; Sept. 7: at Lakewood; Sept. 20: at Seminole; Sept. 28: vs. East Lake; Oct. 5: vs. Largo; Oct. 12: vs. Clearwater; Oct. 18: vs. St. Petersburg; Oct. 26: at Gibbs; Nov. 2: at Dixie Hollins; Nov. 9: vs. Palm Harbor

[Last modified May 26, 2007, 22:12:50]