Even though Winston-Salem State head coach Kienus Boulware tried to downplay any notion of a quarterback controversy after the Rams pulled out an ugly 36-13 win over St. Aug’s Saturday, one could have help but see the potential of one developing.
Rudy Johnson, an All-CIAA performer, was replaced Saturday after throwing a career-high three interceptions in favor of backup Phillip Sims, who went 11-for-17, 173 yards and three touchdowns in the win.
While it has not been unusual for Johnson and Sims to split reps during the game, as Boulware has decided to go with a two-QB rotation since the start of the regular season, it has been Sims of late who has been the more consistent quarterback.
Since his subpar performance in WSSU’s only lost of the season against Valdosta State, Sims — the Virgina transfer — has tallied completion percentage numbers of 66, 81, 55, 71 and 64. In Johnson’s last two outings, he’s completed 46.2 and 35.7 percent of his passes.
Additionally, Sims seemingly has moved the ball more effectively (at least statistically) averaging 150.6 yard per game in the air compared to Johnson’s 121.3 this season.
“Rudy and I are cool,” Sims said. “We had persistence and we were determined to win. It wasn’t the prettiest of wins but we got it done.”
The multiple quarterback system can work on a limited basis, but eventually Boulware is going to have to settle on a guy who can play four quarters without interruption, especially as WSSU prepares for another run to the postseason.
