Interview: 3-Star 2021 OG JaCobe Simms Talks Fall Camp and Serra Football
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
What Class of 2021 offensive lineman JaCobe Simms had going for him last year with Serra High School was size, power, and sheer determination. After an offseason filled with putting together his raw talents and strength, he is now filling in his game with better technique with his pass-protection and run blocking while ramping up his desire to dominate the opposition on every snap. The three-star recruit is the anchor on the line at right guard helping protect three-star 2020 quarterback Doug Brumfield (UNLV). With Brumfield’s arm, he has a wealth of targets to distribute the ball to including seniors Ronald Gilliam (UNLV), Justin Pinkney (UNLV), and Lavon Bunkley-Shelton that could lead the Cavaliers to a Mission League title and run through the Division 1/2 California playoffs.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with Simms getting the details on his workouts with a sneak-peak inside the Cavaliers fall camp as they prepare to open the season on Aug. 30 against Garfield High School.
Interview
JaCobe, how have your offseason workouts gone as an offensive lineman?
“They have been great. I have been working with Legions Athletics. We have been working on my technique, my hand placement, and my hip squareness. I have also been working hard on getting stronger.”
What do you feel are the strengths to your game as you start your junior season?
“My strengths are my hand placement and ferocity. Also, I am way stronger this year. I am more experienced on the field now. My confidence in my abilities has really grown.”
We have talked about your strengths and what you have worked on, which areas of your game have grown over the summer and throughout fall camp?
“I try to focus on my run blocking. Last year I had some difficulties with run blocking on keeping my hips square and driving off the angle. I am going into this season knowing how to use my hips going forward – that is a strength now. My pass blocking is a strength. I am not opening up too soon and showing patience against the rush. I know when to punch and when to use a counter move; those are the two main things that are now strengths to my game.”
You have mentioned your strength a couple of times, what did you max out at in the weight room over the summer?
“I maxed out a 500 on squat and at 300 on bench.”
Where all will you lineup for Serra this season?
“I am starting at right guard, but I can play all three inside positions; both guard spots and center.”
Going into the season, which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“I am receiving interest from UNLV, Nevada, and Arizona State.”
Did you visit any schools this offseason?
“Yes. I went to UNLV in July. It was a great visit.”
Are you planning on visiting any programs this fall?
“Yes. Reno (Nevada) for sure.”
Going back to football. How is the team looking in fall camp?
“This year, we are looking great. Our offense is very good. We have guys like receiver Brody McKinnon coming, he was All-League as a sophomore for Mira Costa last season. Our offense will be great. Our offensive line is confident, solid, and all returners. We are a fast-tempo and fast-paced offense. Our defense is also looking really good. We have some guys on defense. We are ready to go this season.”
What kind of challenge will Garfield bring to you guys on the field?
“We have not watched a lot of film on them yet. We know they are a small team. We will get their defense off their game and we will run the ball down their throats.”
What goals have you set for the 2019 season?
“My personal goals are to be an All-League player for my team and to dominate my opponent. I want to change the view of Serra’s offensive line. We do not get the credit we deserve. I want to make that a dominating part of our team where people are also talking about how well we play the game.”
JaCobe, it was great spending time with you learning more about your game with the inside look on the team. Good luck against Garfield and with the rest of your season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Simms family; JaCobe Simms preseason (2019)