Monday, October 27, 2003
Simmons accepts Lewis' challenge
By Kevin Kelly
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Marvin Lewis expected more. So during a meeting leading up to Sunday's game against the Seahawks, the Bengals' head coach singled out the linebacker.
"There are certain guys I've been on because I know they can do better," Lewis said. "He was one of the guys I pointed out."
Rather than take exception, Brian Simmons saw an opportunity.
"I look at it as a positive," he said. "Sometimes it's good for somebody to help you get somewhere."
The motivation worked.
Simmons seemed to be everywhere on the field during Sunday's win against the Seahawks at Paul Brown Stadium.
The sixth-year pro forced and recovered one fumble, intercepted a pass and tipped another that led to an interception.
"He just keeps getting better every week," Lewis said. "I'm just so happy for him, happy for us, because he's getting it done."
Sunday's performance came a week after Simmons recovered a fumble that led to a touchdown against the Ravens.
"Brian has taken it upon himself," said cornerback Jeff Burris, who intercepted the pass Simmons tipped with 1:46 remaining in the game. "He's always had the talent because he's an unbelievable athlete.
"Now he believes in what (the coaches) are doing. The perfect example was his performance on the field."
"As a defense, we focus on turnovers," Simmons said. "It just comes down to when you have an opportunity to make a play, you've got to make that play.
"The bottom line is we're winning ball games right now. That's what it's about. It's whether you walk off that field with the scoreboard in your favor."
BENGALS
Bengals 27, Seahawks 24
Daugherty: Bengals now expect to win
Game statistics
Dillon doesn't play after car accident
Seattle surprised by Johnson's play
Simmons accepts Lewis' challenge
Fans get wish: Alexander has big day in loss
NFL
AFC: Long drive crushes Jacksonville
NFC: Vikings unbeaten no more
Interconference: Rams offense finds its stride
NFL moves Monday night game to Tempe
Billick wants replay recalled
COLLEGE FOOTBALL
Heisman is still there for taking
Irish running out of time
Top 25 shakeups
BASEBALL
O'Brien's problems come in short, long-term form
McKeon shines in turnaround
Yankees facing change
Marlins among first to file for free agency
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
C-USA's loss is Memphis' gain
NBA
Cavaliers are new; are they improved?
PREP SPORTS
Anderson is eager for Elder challenge
Today's schedule
GOLF
Disney win vaults Singh past Woods on money list
ON THE AIR
Sports on TV, radio
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