Bust a move: Phillips all over the field for South all-stars

Nate Phillips bounced onto the practice field, grooving to the music pouring out of the speakers.

Phillips pulled on his helmet just as the play list turned to a song older than the former Modesto High School star: “Bust a move.”

“This here’s a jam for all the fellas. Tryin’ to do what those ladies tell us …”

Phillips probably couldn’t pick Young MC out of a crowd, but he can relate to the title of the track. He will stay on the move this week, shuffling between position groups as the South prepares for the 42nd annual Lions All-Star Football Game on Saturday at Tracy High’s Wayne Schneider Stadium.

The former dual-threat quarterback could impact the game in all three phases. He’s listed as a wide receiver and defensive back in the program and was recruited by Taylor University in Upland, Ind., in part because of his ability to return kicks.

“He was one of the first kids we picked because we could use him anywhere,” said South coach Jeremy Plaa, who led Downey to its third consecutive Modesto Metro Conference title and game-planned against the Panthers’ explosive athlete. “He can do a little bit of everything.”

Phillips, who will convert to safety at Taylor, is just happy to be back in pads. The stepson of Modesto coach Richie Alkire, Phillips understands the fraternity he’s joined by playing in this all-star game, one of the oldest of its kind in the state.

“A lot of guys played their last high school game in the fall, and for me, I’m truly honored to be playing in this Lions All-Star Game,” Phillips said. “This is a game I’m passionate about. I love the sport. To be able to continue my education and continue playing is a blessing.”

Phillips’ versatility has been a godsend for Plaa, whose roster seems to get smaller by the day. Four more players dropped out Monday. In all, nine players have bailed since rosters were announced. Most of those spots have been filled, but as of Monday evening, Plaa was still searching for answers at a few key positions.

The only question he has about Phillips: Where will he get the majority of his snaps?

“As this game has evolved, we’ve literally slid him all around the position board,” Plaa said.

True to form, Phillips moved between drills during Monday’s steamy evening session at Cal State Stanislaus.

With Young MC setting the early tempo, Phillips reported to defensive backs coaches Anthony Castro and Russ Garcia. He later platooned with Plaa, quarterback P.J. Wilson and the other receivers. He even launched a few deep passes, hitting Patterson’s Damarrio Hammonds in stride.

There’s a small chance Phillips could find himself back under center. He is the South’s emergency quarterback should something befall Wilson, Downey’s triggerman. Phillips shared the Modesto Metro Conference MVP award with Wilson after nearly identical seasons.

In fact, on a field full of stars, Phillips might have the most impressive credentials. He guided Modesto (9-2) to a runner-up finish in the MMC at 5-1, completing 64.5 percent of his passes for 2,166 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also led the Panthers in rushing with 1,337 yards and seven more scores.

“We knew he was versatile and an extremely good athlete at quarterback,” Plaa said. “A lot of the teams he beat, he beat them with his feet. He’s so quick with the ball, it’s surprising.

“When we played him, we wanted to make sure he didn’t run the ball at us. We didn’t care if he threw the ball, we just wanted to keep him in front of us.”

Phillips’ first look Saturday likely will be at safety. He hopes the Lions experience will serve as a crash course for a position he’s played sparingly.

“In college, everyone’s going to be a great athlete. To be here, at the Lions All-Star Game, we’re going up against guys like Damarrio Hammonds, guys from Hughson, guys I’ve never seen before. Those guys are incredible athletes,” Phillips said. “For me, a guy still learning to play the position, to be able to fine-tune my skills against a guy that has perfected his craft, it’s an honor to go up against him.”

Phillips believes his time under center will speed up the learning process at safety. He’s comfortable reading the field and can spot the tells of a quarterback and wide receiver.

He also enjoys contact and the challenge of it all.

“Even though I’m a stout 5-foot-9, 160 pounds, I love contact. I like to hit people. I like flying around and finding the ball,” Phillips said, his voice building with excitement. “It’s just another challenge. It’s something I like to do. I like to push myself and exceed my limits. Playing safety is going to do that for me, and it’s going to be a fun experience.”

This story was originally published June 9, 2015 at 8:13 PM with the headline "Bust a move: Phillips all over the field for South all-stars."