With Sims’ availability uncertain, Key said he plans to have Zach Gibson (who played in place of Sims against Virginia) and Zach Pyron play against the Seminoles. This is at least a strong indication that Sims might not be available on Saturday.
Tech lost Jeff Sims for the second quarter of Thursday’s 16-9 loss to Virginia, leaving his use questionable for Tech’s game Saturday against Florida State (noon, ACC Network). Interim coach Brent Key said Tuesday at his weekly press conference that Sims is only available for one day because of a foot sprain.
Gibson, a sophomore, was inserted in the second quarter and finished the game with a 10-for-25 passing percentage for 99 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. He led the Yellow Jackets to three scores in 10 attempts.
Gibson admitted he didn’t play well, but there are signs he could play better once he gets game practice and has a full week to learn from the experience. Because Sims and Gibson have different strengths and weaknesses, the offense will have to adjust to Gibson’s strengths.
“He can throw a good football; we have to fix things around him to play to his strengths,” Key said. “That hasn’t always shown up in the game, but that’s why you play the game and continue to learn during the game. You learn 10 times as much during a football game as you do in practice. The game is different. He has the instincts, we just have to use his talents.”