By JOSH FRYE
News Sportswriter
The Alabama Sportswriter Association announced December 29 that Escambia Academy standout quarterback Landon Sims has been selected as a finalist for AISA Back of the Year honors.
Sims was a triple threat for the Cougars last season, helping lead the team to the AISA Class AA title game for the fifth straight year. The junior signal-caller rushed for 1,050 yards on 125 carries, including 14 touchdowns. He also completed 82 of 125 pass attempts (65.6 percent) for 1,536 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Sims also shined on defense, where he contributed 51 tackles (including two for a loss), four interceptions, and three sacks. He was also the team’s place-kicker.
“We are very proud of Landon,” EA head coach Hugh Fountain said. “Landon has been a leader and represents our school and program well. It is a big honor anytime one of our kids is recognized for their hard work.”
Fountain added that Sims is not the first player to receive honors from the ASWA and will not be the last.
“We take athletics and academics seriously,” Fountain stated. “This helps put our school on the map and it certainly gives Landon a leg up for college prospects.”
The EA field general is the only junior that was selected as a finalist.
Peyton Allen from Chambers Academy and Mario White from Pike Liberal Arts, both seniors, joined Sims as finalists for the honor.
The AISA Back of the Year announcement will be made later this month.