That run was snapped in 1999 in the UCLA game because of injuries, a game that the Beavers won 55-7 on their other strengths. But Simonton didn't take a very long break before he posted another 100-yard rushing game. He came back two games later against Cal to rush for 134 yards in a magical game, in which the Beavers broke the 28-year string of losing seasons. The sixth win of the season wouldn't have been complete without the Beavers' star tailback standing in the end zone seconds after he scored. Granted he scored the two-point conversion but nonetheless, his role in the win was still very key.
Football takes a lot of mental toughness.
After his spectacular sophomore season, Simonton has a few changes that he must adjust to. First, the depth chart at tailback just got deeper as Oregon State picked up transfer Patrick McCall from Michigan. Second, this season Simonton will break the Oregon State record for career rushing. If he is able to keep himself healthy, he'll do it in the first game against Eastern Washington. Third, he won't be nearly as tired this season as he was last year with the depth that the Beavers have in the backfield.