Led by William Jackson, Brian Dillard, and a physical defense, Evans looks to turn years of program growth into a postseason breakthrough under head coach Karlos Odum.

By ESOne Sports Staff | November 11, 2026

ORLANDO, FL — Something feels different about the Evans Trojans heading into the 2026 postseason.

For the past several years, Evans has entered the playoffs with talent, expectations, and hopes of making a run, only to see its season end in the opening round. Last November, the Trojans traveled to Pace and suffered a 20–6 defeat.

This time, the road begins at home.

The Trojans enter Friday’s Class 5A regional quarterfinal against Bartram Trail at 7–3, fresh off a district championship and riding a five-game winning streak. Their three losses came by a combined 14 points, a reminder of just how close this team has been to an even more impressive season.

An Offense Finding Its Identity

Offensive coordinator Grant Alford has helped develop one of Central Florida’s most explosive offensive units, led by quarterback William Jackson and wide receiver Brian Dillard.

Jackson has thrown for 2,855 yards and 24 touchdowns, completing 70.5% of his passes. His chemistry with Dillard has become one of the biggest storylines surrounding the Trojans.

Dillard, who transferred from The First Academy, has been exceptional in his first full season primarily playing wide receiver, recording 54 receptions, 1,355 yards, and 11 touchdowns. His transition speaks to both his natural ability and the coaching staff’s ability to put athletes in positions to succeed.

But this offense is far from a two-man operation.

Running backs Daveon Williams (777 yards, 10 touchdowns) and Oryan Hartfield (579 yards, five touchdowns) provide a dangerous one-two punch on the ground, while a talented receiving corps gives Jackson multiple options.

Evans has scored 343 points, averaging 34.3 per game.

A Defense Built to Make Its Presence Felt

Under defensive coordinator Darrell Hand, Evans has developed a physical, aggressive defense capable of changing games.

Christopher Sanon, transitioning from defensive end to linebacker for the first time, has been outstanding, recording 117 tackles and three sacks. His ability to adjust to a new position while remaining productive speaks volumes about his football instincts.

Alongside him, Triston McCloud has developed into another force, collecting 112 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. As the season progressed, McCloud’s growth and ability to read the game became increasingly noticeable.

Then there’s Demetre Pryor, whose versatility has added another dimension to the defense. Moving closer to the box has allowed Pryor to showcase his instincts, whether intercepting a pass against Lake Minneola or pursuing ball carriers from the backside. With 68 tackles, three interceptions, and three forced fumbles, Pryor is displaying traits that translate to the next level.

The secondary also features David Coleman Jr., another addition from The First Academy.

Coleman has recorded 30 tackles, an interception, and five passes defended, but his impact goes beyond statistics. Opposing quarterbacks have rarely made him a primary target, yet his willingness to pursue plays across the field and his vocal leadership have made him invaluable.

The additions of Coleman and Dillard from TFA have benefited both athletes and Evans, demonstrating what can happen when talented players find the right environment to showcase their abilities.

Karlos Odum Is Building More Than a Winning Team

Perhaps the biggest story is what head coach Karlos Odum continues to build at Evans.

The program has progressed from 5–5 in 2023, 6–4 in 2024, 8–2 in 2025, and now 7–3 entering the 2026 playoffs. That gives Odum a 29–14 record at Evans across those five seasons, according to MaxPreps.

For a program that regularly welcomes new talent, building chemistry, accountability, and a winning culture is no small task.

And for anyone who has followed Evans football over the years, the difference extends beyond the scoreboard. The talent has always existed in the community. What Odum and his staff are building is an environment where that talent can come together and compete.

Now comes the opportunity to take another step.

Friday night, Evans won’t be traveling across the state hoping to pull off a playoff victory. The Trojans will defend their home field against Bartram Trail, with a chance to write a different ending.

The regular season has shown what this team can become.

The playoffs will reveal just how far it can go.