"The U" still casts big shadow for UT players from Florida

Toledo's Desmond Phillips was committed to play at Miami (Fla.) for a brief time before coming to UT.University of Toledo junior wide receiver Desmond Phillips was a high school quarterback at Miami Jackson High School, playing in the shadow of the University of Miami, one of the most iconic college programs in the country.

Phillips, recruited as a slot receiver, committed to Toledo early in the recruiting process before flipping to his hometown Miami Hurricanes. He then changed his mind again, recommitting to the Rockets.

Phillips entrusted himself to Toledo coach Jason Candle, who was in his first year taking on head coaching duties. Phillips said when he re-pledged to Toledo, Candle…