Quote:FSU's Sims Makes Presence Known

Published: Aug 19, 2004
Doug Carlson
Tampa Tribune

TALLAHASSEE - After missing Monday's scrimmage with minor injuries, Florida State LB Ernie Sims didn't take long to make his presence felt in a mini-scrimmage Wednesday night in Doak Campbell Stadium.  He showed why he's considered a high-impact player by flattening TE Matt Henshaw on the first play and coming back with another monster hit two plays later that caught Coach Bobby Bowden's eye.

"You know when he's there,'' Bowden said.

Though Henshaw was helped off the field, he returned. Starting OG Bobby Meeks, who hurt his ankle, did not.

He left the stadium on crutches and wearing a brace on his right ankle, but OL coach Jimmy Heggins said the injury wasn't serious.  "He just rolled it [during the scrimmage]. He'll be back,'' Heggins said.

NEVER CAME BACK: FB Torrance Washington, the best runner at his position for FSU, was forced on Tuesday to realize his football-playing days are over.  A knee injury that never fully healed ended his hopes of coming back after missing all of last season.

"You were hoping he would [be able to come back], but until he does you can't count on him.  He's been out for a year and a half now,'' Bowden said.  "He's a natural runner on the goal line - something you can't teach the way he can run down there - so we'll miss that.''

STILL KICKING: Bowden praised the preseason performance of Kicker  Xavier Beitia, who was impressive on Wednesday, and freshman Gary Cismesia, who is challenging for the job.  Beitia went 3-for-3 during the scrimmage, converting from 44 yards (twice) and 49 yards.  Cismesia made his only opportunity, from 44 yards.

"They've done well all preseason and kicked best today. Everything was right down the middle,'' Bowden said.  "That's what competition will do for you.  It makes everybody try to get better.  If they don't, they know they'll lose their job.''

HE SAID IT:  "Surratt is gonna be an excellent fullback once he learns what's going on.  He weighs 270 and he's built good.'' - Bowden, talking about freshman FB Joe Surratt.