PHOTOS: Dr. Phillips football cruises in regional quarterfinal -- Observer Preps

DR. PHILLIPS The Dr. Phillips football team cruised to a 35-7 opening round victory in the FHSAA Class 8A State Playoffs that was hardly in question after the first whistle blew.

Fans had hardly settled into their seats when the Panthers (9-2) exploded for 28 points in the first quarter, fueled by three touchdown passes thrown by BeSean McCray.

The defense did its part, also, forcing two fumbles that both were recovered by Christian Williams — one of which he picked up and returned for a touchdown.

Dr. Phillips led 35-0 at halftime, meaning the second half operated with a running clock. The Panthers largely played second-string players the rest of the way.

Ridge Community ended its season with a 7-4 record.

Dr. Phillips, the No. 4 seed in Class 8A-Region 2, will now travel to take on No. 1 Osceola Nov. 17 in the regional semifinals.