Emerald Coast Sports Show Overtime: Interview with Walton Head Coach Jay Lindsey
The Walton Braves have opened their season in dominant fashion, steamrolling their first two opponents with a clear identity: depth, defense, and discipline. Head Coach Jay Lindsey credits the team’s buy-in since December, though he remains focused on the challenges ahead, specifically upcoming district competition and special teams refinement.
Emerald Coast High School football: Our 🔥 takes for Week 3’s games (are we wrong?)
Local high school football teams are back on the field, and the stakes are higher than ever this week. From the Mosley Dolphins facing off against the Niceville Eagles to a massive showdown between Florida High and South Walton, we break down the must-watch matchups shaping the season. Get the full analysis on MidBay News.
Bulletin Board Material: Week 2
Bulletin Board Material ia up for Week 2 of the 2026 Emerald Coast football season. We are breaking down high-stakes matchups like Fort Walton Beach versus South Walton and Auburn facing off against Choctaw. Join us as we evaluate last week’s standout players and predict outcomes for this Friday’s gridiron action.
Gallery: Stingy Defense springboards gritty Mosley over tenacious Choctaw in Season Opener
Choctaw dropped its opener to Mosley in a tough 15-13 loss, separated only by a trick-play two point conversion.
Niceville Wins First Little League State Championship in 16 Years
Niceville’s 8-10 All Stars won the Florida Little League State Championship and will now represent Florida in North Carolina.
Greg Thomas Returns to the Sideline With Niceville Eagles
Niceville High School has added veteran coach Greg Thomas to its football staff, bringing decades of experience and four state championships to the Eagles.
Walton Braves Football: Could they be 2026s dark horse?
Walton Braves head coach Jay Lindsay joins Final Approach to Game Day to break down how his team is turning a 4–7 season into a springboard for 2026. He explains why returning nearly the entire offense should lead to more points, how a disciplined defense and a brutal schedule against bigger schools will shape the Braves, and why he measures success not just in district titles and playoff runs, but in the kind of men his players become long after Friday nights.
Governor approves more pay for high school coaches – with caveats
High school sports coaches in Florida will now have the chance to make more money – contributed by booster clubs and alumni organizations. They will also be permitted to use their personal funds to support the student athletes they coach.
After remarkable 2025 success, Choctaw looks to smash 2026 expectations
Head Coach Frank Beasley isn’t resting on last year’s Final Four run, instead focusing on the foundation laid during 6:00 AM workouts in February, calling it the moment the team’s success was “actually poured.” The Choctaw Indians are preparing for the 2026 season with a philosophy built on physicality, fundamental execution, and “contact courage”—the mental fortitude to seek out high-impact collisions. With a battle-tested roster and a schedule featuring Florida powerhouses and defending Alabama state champion Thompson High School, Beasley is committed to playing the best to be the best. The program’s success is tied to a culture where the logo on the helmet always comes before the name on the back of the jersey, ensuring collective sacrifice drives their push for another deep playoff run.
Josh Pulliam and the Vikes have epic spring game lineup as they row hard to Valhalla
Fort Walton Beach High School head football coach Josh Pulliam, a local who graduated from Choctawhatchee High School, returned to Okaloosa County after playing college ball and coaching at USF to rebuild the Vikings program. Now leading the team, Pulliam is focused on developing his players into better men through “small daily disciplines,” guided by the mantra “chop wood and carry water”. Despite the program having been “down for a little bit,” he notes that the community passion remains, and the Vikings are “rising from the ashes” with a committed staff. Looking ahead, the Vikings plan for offensive creativity, utilizing versatile players like Lavin McDaniel and Cannon Wilbur, while rebuilding a sound, aggressive defense. The coach is urging the community to come out and support the team at the upcoming spring game against Crestview, Mosley, and Pine Forest.
