Matt Rhule discusses ball security from Jeff Sims, past performance

Matt Rhule isn’t concerned about Jeff Sims‘ ball security. On Sunday, the Nebraska head coach discussed concerns surrounding his starting quarterback’s turnover habits.

“Jeff is taking great care of the ball,” Rhule said. “When the Big Ten Network came, they talked about him being the highest in college football in terms of returning turnovers. I wouldn’t have ever expected that just from being around him.

“Someone went back and watched them, and there were a lot of times you would say they’re probably not his fault. He was getting hit or someone got hit and dropped that ball. I think Jeff is taking great care of the ball.”

Sims recorded three interceptions in seven games last season at Georgia Tech. In three years at GT, Sims tossed out 23 picks. Nonetheless, he also amassed 364 completions for 4,464 yards and 30 touchdowns.

Sims’ arm isn’t his only threat. The 6-foot-3 QB often employed his legs for 1,152 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns at Georgia Tech. Of course, his breakout runs didn’t come without a few hiccups. While with the Yellow Jackets, Sims posted 17 career fumbles.

While Rhule doesn’t want to encourage careless plays, he knows success demands risk.

“We want to win the turnover battle but also win the explosive play battle,” Rhule said. “We can go out there and go into a shell and not turn the ball over ever, but go three-and-out. So, it’s the same thing, right?

“We want to be explosive and I think Jeff is learning that line of when to be explosive; when to take a chance and when not to. We don’t want to play scared. That’s the biggest thing for this group is they can’t play scared,” Rhule said. “I know we’re playing on Aug. 31, but there’s a lot of games after that.”

Matt Rhule prepares his team

Rhule understands the grueling effects of a long season. Thus, the 48-year-old head coach isn’t rushing his players toward preparation for Week 1.

“They get a chance to kind of recover now,” Rhule said. “We’ve gone really hard. For some of them, it’s probably the hardest thing they’ve ever done. It’s good. I’m pleased with them, so we’ll take two days before going three in a row on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. We’ll have a mock game Thursday night under the lights. We’ll come in Friday, do some stuff and give them Saturday off.”

By Aug. 31, the Cornhuskers should be well-rested. Nebraska will take on Minnesota at 8 p.m. in its season opener.