For the first time, a player has been named Player of the Week in back-to-back weeks.

Tim Monihan and Farmers Insurance recognize senior running back Dorsey Benefield as the 19th and 20th Player of the Week for the 2023 fall sports season. Benefield has previously earned the recognition three times.

“[Dorsey] deserves it. He earned it,” football head coach Chad Phillips said. “He’s very influential as far as the way he works in the weight room, and the locker room, the way he practices, and he’s very influential to all the younger players.” 

In the second round of the AAAA state playoffs, Benefield rushed 18 times for 187 and 2 touchdowns. Overall, the Panthers ran for 321 yards in the 45-27 win over New Hampstead.

“I’ve been working hard in practice,” Benefield said. “The offensive linemen contribute to my stats.”

Last week, in a thrilling 35-29 victory over undefeated Central High School, Starr’s Mill posted 520 yards of total offense. Benefield rushed 25 times for 187 and 2 touchdowns.

“He has had 400 yards rushing,” head coach Chad Phillips said. “He’s really made some gigantic, game-changing plays in the game.”

One of those plays was a 59-yard rushing touchdown in the opening quarter against New Hampstead. Benefield also had a 57-yard touchdown run in the first quarter against Central.

For the first time in school history, Starr’s Mill will host a state semifinal game. The Panthers play tonight against Perry at 7:30 p.m. in Panther Stadium. 

The winner of tonight’s game will advance to the AAAA state championship held in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.