Ah - I didn't think of the check in again scenario. So used to straight tickets. Drat.
I do it all the time with carry on bag and a short connection. You can check in online but just walk straight to the gate and they will act like you've not checked in and will give you a boarding pass right there. No need to leave the secured area. I usually get my boarding pass and then sit at the wine bar across from Margaritaville and wait for them to start boarding.
