Sipple: Inspired by Osborne, ex-Husker Simmons back on track

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Nexus

All-American
Ricky Simmons was a forgotten man. At least that's how he felt at times behind bars.
In 2008, he called the state prison in Tecumseh home. He was a repeat drug offender — cocaine was his weakness. It ravaged his life. He was 47. His parents had passed away. There wasn't exactly a line of visitors waiting to see him.

Please rewind for a moment. Nebraska football fans fondly remember "The Triplets" — Turner Gill, Mike Rozier and Irving Fryar. Well, Simmons in 1983 was the Huskers' second-leading receiver behind Fryar. Oh, how little No. 7 (he was listed at 5-foot-10 and 175 pounds, but says he was closer to 160) could fly — and maneuver.

"I could make you miss me in a phone booth," the former split end says proudly.

Once a Husker, always a Husker. Simmons remembers the prison guard who always greeted him derisively: "How ya doin' inmate Simmons, former Husker."

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Yeah the story is nice! But he really dropped to his knees and prayed when a letter from Osborne came in? Interesting!

 
Good article! Nice find, Nexus! :thumbs

This is a stupid kind of word nerd complaint, but I hate it when people use any form of the word "notorious" as a synonym for fame or celebrity. It has an implicit negative connotation in addition to meaning that someone or some thing is widely known.

Dork alarm deactivate. Merry Christmas everyone, by the way!

 
Great read. Shows what people can accomplish when they know they have someone that believes in them. Support is a great motivator.

 
Had the privilege of meeting Mr Simmons when working at YRTC in Kearney. Very inspirational speaker who has turned his life around. Has a dog or two he is a big fan of. Sang praise about TO. #GBR

 
Thanks for sharing this! Wonderful story! Good for Ricky!! I love hearing about how Christ can change lives. Merry Christmas all!

 
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