Last season, Phillips returned three interceptions, one kick return and one punt return for touchdowns. His three interceptions returned for touchdowns tied the Mid-American Conference single season record. One of his interceptions came against Central Michigan University when he returned the ball 85-yards to the house. Phillips was named the Special Teams MAC Player of the Year, the 2016 first-team All-MAC Defense and the 2016 second-team All-Mac Special Teams. Phillips was also named to the Paul Hornburg Award watch list; the award goes to the most dynamic player of the football season. Phillips earned the naming by his play on both defense and special teams, as well as his ability to play offense like he did his freshman year at the wide out position where he totaled 32 receptions for 479 yards and two touchdowns.
Dynamic Darius Phillips poised for exciting senior season
