By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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In a close contest where the pressue was mounting, Jeff Sims was the difference-maker in the moments that mattered most.

Georgia Tech quarterback Jeff Sims is a star.

Quite notably, the true freshman signal caller thrived in his collegiate debut on Saturday, ultimately leading the Yellow Jackets to a dramatic three-point win on the road at Florida State. Sims made numerous plays down the stretch, throwing for a total of 277 yards and rushing for 64 more, pacing a second half Georgia Tech rally that featured him throwing a game-tying fourth quarter touchdown pass to Malachi Carter. It was Sims who led the Yellow Jackets to 438 total yards and 8-of-16 on third down tries.

The end result was the program’s second-ever win in Tallahassee.

Sims was calm and fluid, consistent and smooth. Despite game one being his formal introduction to college football, there was a palpable presence to Sims that benefited both his offense and entire team. Leadership, already, for Sims, was on clear display. Even after an interception close to the goaline on Georgia Tech’s opening drive, then another in the redzone, he remained confident and poised as the game unfolded. How Sims’ responded is a sign of the type of player he is.

In a close contest where the pressue was mounting, Sims was the difference-maker in the moments that mattered most.

It had to be a special moment for Sims, a long-time Florida State commit from nearby Jacksonville. His first start came in the most fitting of circumstances; his first performance, for one of Georgia Tech’s most highly-regarded quarterback recruits ever, was more of the same. Sims, back in the Sunshine State, was at home on the big stage. Leading the Yellow Jackets to victory, he looked as if he had played the part time and time again.

Georgia Tech is a fascinating program, a tradition-rich hub that has a new direction under Geoff Collins. Sims, fresh off a debut to remember, is a big part of that excitement, present and future alike.