2025 is a BIG year for SDSU Football. Sons of Montezuma is putting into focus our top San Diego State Aztecs football players for you to to know in the upcoming 2025 season.
- Name: Bryce Phillips
- Position: Cornerback
- Class: Senior
- Height/Weight: 6’1″, 195 lbs
- Hometown: Long Beach, California
- Previous School: Tennessee State
Phillips transferred to San Diego State after two standout seasons at Tennessee State, where he started all 22 games, recording 68 tackles and 18 pass breakups for the Tigers. He was named to the 2022 Ohio Valley Conference second team and the all-newcomer team.
In 2024 Bryce said goodbye to the bright lights of Nashville and said hello to coming back home to the west coast. In his first season with the Aztecs last year he started all 12 games at right cornerback, tallying 40 tackles and one big interception. His 4th quarter pick against Central Michigan in the season’s fourth game and almost locked up a win.
Where Phillips excelled for the Aztecs last year was his exceptional coverage skills. His ability in man-to-man coverage to consistently limit opposing receivers’ effectiveness especially after the catch. His deep experience starting at both Tennessee State and San Diego State brings a wealth of knowledge and composure to this years secondary.
But it’s not just all coverage—Phillips has ball skills. His 18 pass breakups at Tennessee State highlight his knack for disrupting passes and creating turnover opportunities. Now that he has one season playing at the Mountain West level of competition and has shown flashes of brilliance, he will be counted on to increase his interception totals and pass deflections.
Cornerbacks Coach Demetrius Sumler and Aztec Nation should expect more consistency from Phillips this year in elevating his impact on the field. Perhaps refining his tackling technique and physical presence can aid in run support and short-yardage situations as well.
As a senior leader, Phillips is expected to anchor the Aztecs’ secondary, providing stability and mentorship to younger players. His performance this final season in the Mountain West will be crucial in San Diego State’s transition to the Pac-12 Conference in 2026. A strong season could also bolster his prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.
“We’re building something special here. The bond we have as a team is unbreakable, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish this season.” said Phillips to Rivals.com recently. His blend of experience, skill, and leadership positions him as a cornerstone of the Aztecs’ defense in the upcoming season for a very talented defensive backfield.
Stay tuned as we list more crucial Aztec Warriors that will be looking to make a big impact this 2025 season. The list isn’t in any specific order—but let us know in the comments what you think of Bryce Phillips and each player as the list unfolds.
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