5 Defining Moments And Key Players Of The Dr. Phillips High School Football Dynasty

The Dr. Phillips High School football program remains one of Central Florida’s most consistent and formidable forces, solidifying its reputation as a perennial playoff contender in the state’s highest classifications. As of December 2025, the Panthers have just concluded another successful campaign, navigating a challenging schedule to secure a strong 9-4 overall record and making a deep run into the FHSAA state playoffs.

This article dives into the recent performance of the Dr. Phillips Panthers, analyzing their 2025 season achievements, the influential figures shaping the program's success, and the elite talent pipeline that continues to produce NFL-caliber players from the Orlando, FL campus.

The Dr. Phillips Panthers Football Program: A Legacy Profile

The Dr. Phillips High School (DPHS) football team, known as the Panthers, has cultivated a fierce tradition of excellence since its establishment. Located on Turkey Lake Road in Orlando, the program is synonymous with high-level competition and has consistently ranked among the top high school teams in Florida.

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Program Overview & History

• Location: Orlando, Florida (Turkey Lake Rd).
• Nickname: Panthers.
• Classification: FHSAA Class 8A/7A (historically).
• Head Coach: Rodney Wells (A DPHS alumnus and former standout linebacker who set a school record during his playing days).
• State Championships: 1x State Champions (The Panthers secured their first and only FHSAA Class 8A State Championship in 2017 with a victory over Delray Atlantic).
• State Runner-Up Finishes: 2x (Highlighting the program’s consistent presence in the final rounds of the state tournament).
• 2025 Season Record: 9-4 Overall.

Notable Alumni: The NFL Pipeline

The Dr. Phillips program has proven to be an elite breeding ground for professional talent, with several alumni achieving success at the highest levels of college and professional football. This pipeline is a significant source of pride and topical authority for the school.

• Ha Ha Clinton-Dix: A standout safety who played collegiately at Alabama before being selected in the first round (21st overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. He is arguably the most famous NFL alumnus from the school.
• Matt Milano: An accomplished linebacker who played for Boston College and has become a key defensive player in the NFL.
• Marcell Harris: A defensive back who played for the Florida Gators before moving on to the professional ranks.
• Trey Griffey: A wide receiver who played at Arizona and is the son of legendary baseball player Ken Griffey Jr.

The 2025 Season: A Deep Playoff Run to the Regional Final

The 2025 Dr. Phillips Panthers football season was marked by resilience, strong coaching, and a determined push deep into the postseason. Despite facing numerous high-caliber opponents, the team finished with an impressive 9-4 overall record, demonstrating their ability to compete at the highest level of Florida high school football.

The Panthers' journey was a testament to their grit, with several crucial victories paving the way for a deep playoff run. A notable highlight included a nail-biting 22-21 tournament victory over Central High School, a win that showcased the team's ability to perform under intense pressure in the FHSAA Football State Championships bracket.

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The Regional Final Showdown

The Panthers' season ultimately concluded in the FHSAA 8A/7A Regional Final on November 28, 2025. In a tough road matchup, Dr. Phillips fell to a powerful Vero Beach High School squad with a final score of 49-23.

While the loss ended their hopes for a second state championship title, reaching the Regional Final is a significant achievement that underscores the program's consistent status as one of the state's elite. The team secured its spot in the regional semifinals, proving their ability to contend for championships year after year.

Key Players and Recruiting Outlook for the Future

The success of the 2025 season was fueled by a core group of talented senior leaders and highly-recruited underclassmen. The Dr. Phillips program continues to be a hot spot for college recruiters, with several players poised to make a significant impact at the next level.

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Top 2025 Panther Recruits

The Panthers roster featured several athletes whose performances drew national attention, ensuring the program’s talent pipeline remains strong. These players are the future of Dr. Phillips football and the next wave of potential NFL alumni.

• Stanley Anderson-Lofton (QB): The senior quarterback was a top recruit for the 2025 class. Anderson-Lofton committed to Middle Tennessee, highlighting the program’s ability to develop high-level signal-callers. His leadership was crucial in the team's playoff push.
• Zhytrez Ervin (WR/Sr.): A top offensive threat, Ervin was a statistical leader for the Panthers. He finished the season as a top performer, particularly in the passing game, averaging 45.0 receiving yards per game.
• Jayden Buckhanon (Sr.): Another senior leader who contributed significantly to the team's success throughout the season.
• McHenry Fortilien (Sr.): A key senior presence on the roster, providing experience and stability.
• Torrey Scott (Jr.): Representing the next generation of talent, Scott was a key junior contributor whose performance will be vital for the 2026 season.

The Rodney Wells Effect on Development

Head Coach Rodney Wells, a former Dr. Phillips star himself, is central to the team's consistent success and recruiting appeal. Wells’s tenure has been defined by his commitment to developing well-rounded athletes who are prepared for the rigors of college football and beyond.

His deep ties to the Orlando community and the program’s history allow him to connect with players on a unique level. Under his guidance, the Panthers have maintained a culture of winning, making them a premier destination for aspiring high school football players in Central Florida. The consistency in the coaching staff, which includes experienced assistants like Steve McKnight and Adam Moratelli, further reinforces the program's stability and development focus.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Season and Beyond

While the loss in the 2025 Regional Final was a tough end to a remarkable season, the Dr. Phillips Panthers have once again proven they are a dominant force in the FHSAA landscape. The 9-4 record and deep playoff run serve as a strong foundation for the upcoming 2026 season.

With a new crop of talented players like Torrey Scott stepping up to fill the shoes of graduating seniors such as Stanley Anderson-Lofton and Zhytrez Ervin, the Panthers are expected to remain a top contender. The program's blend of elite coaching, a rich history of success, and a constant stream of college-bound talent ensures that Dr. Phillips High School football will continue to capture the attention of fans and recruiters across the nation for years to come.

The pursuit of the next State Championship title begins immediately, as the Panthers aim to build on the success of their 2025 campaign and restore the trophy to the prestigious Orlando campus.