Ernie Sims is a former American football linebacker who had a storied career at Florida State University (FSU) before moving on to the National Football League (NFL). During his time at FSU, Sims established himself as one of the top defensive players in the country, earning numerous awards and accolades for his outstanding performance on the field.
Early Career and Recruitment
Sims was born in Tallahassee, Florida, and grew up in a family of athletes. He attended North Florida Christian High School, where he excelled in football, earning All-American honors and being named the USA Today Defensive Player of the Year in 2002. Sims’ impressive high school career caught the attention of several top college programs, including FSU, which ultimately offered him a scholarship. He committed to FSU in 2003, choosing the Seminoles over other prominent programs like the University of Florida and the University of Miami.
Freshman Season (2003)
As a freshman, Sims saw significant playing time, appearing in all 13 games and starting in several contests. He finished the season with 50 tackles, including 7.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Sims’ impressive debut earned him Freshman All-American honors from several publications, including The Sporting News and College Football News.
Sophomore Season (2004)
Sims’ sophomore season was even more impressive, as he started all 12 games and recorded 86 tackles, including 10.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. He also intercepted one pass and forced two fumbles, showcasing his versatility and playmaking ability. Sims’ outstanding performance earned him Second-Team All-ACC honors and a spot on the Butkus Award watch list.
Junior Season (2005)
Sims’ junior season was arguably his best at FSU, as he started all 13 games and recorded a career-high 97 tackles, including 14 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks. He also intercepted one pass and forced three fumbles, helping the Seminoles win the ACC Championship. Sims’ dominant performance earned him First-Team All-ACC honors and a spot on several All-American teams, including the Associated Press and Walter Camp Foundation teams.
| Season | Games | Tackles | TFL | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 13 | 50 | 7.5 | 1.5 |
| 2004 | 12 | 86 | 10.5 | 3.5 |
| 2005 | 13 | 97 | 14 | 4 |
Awards and Accolades
Sims’ outstanding career at FSU was recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including:
- Freshman All-American (2003)
- Second-Team All-ACC (2004)
- First-Team All-ACC (2005)
- Associated Press All-American (2005)
- Walter Camp Foundation All-American (2005)
- Butkus Award semifinalist (2005)
Legacy at FSU
Sims’ legacy at FSU continues to be felt, as he remains one of the top defensive players in program history. His impressive career statistics, including 233 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 9 sacks, rank among the best in FSU history. Sims’ dominance on the field and his numerous awards and accolades have inspired future generations of Seminoles defenders, cementing his status as a legendary figure in FSU football lore.
What were Ernie Sims’ career statistics at FSU?
+Ernie Sims’ career statistics at FSU include 233 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, and 9 sacks, in 38 games played.
What awards and accolades did Ernie Sims receive during his career at FSU?
+Ernie Sims received numerous awards and accolades during his career at FSU, including Freshman All-American, Second-Team All-ACC, First-Team All-ACC, Associated Press All-American, and Walter Camp Foundation All-American honors.
