Following Alabama’s decisive victory over USF, quarterback Jalen Milroe spoke about the game. He took the time to give the spotlight to one of his fellow teammates, who he referred to as the soul of the team — Tyler Booker (offensive lineman).
Milroe didn’t stop there. He highlighted how Booker’s presence lifts everyone around him.

Milroe gave a special honor to Tyler during the post-game presser while wearing a shirt with Booker’s face on it. “I am just proud of him, who he is as a person, how great of a teammate he is, you know, I enjoy just having him as my teammate”, Milroe said. But it wasn’t only about what was happening on the ball field with Booker.

Milroe, of course, is an exceptional character; however, the respect that he has for Booker is evident, and the shirt that Milroe wore is not an ordinary shirt. It is the pride of a team member that he has for his mate, and he really cares.

“He throws positive light to all the guys on offense,” Milroe added. Milroe could not help but emphasize how much Booker has helped the team. While you don’t often see a quarterback take the time to give praise to an OL, Booker’s leadership and character are simply undeniable.

Tyler Booker: the unsung hero on the offensive line

We don’t always focus on the front five on offense for the Crimson Tide, but don’t be fooled, because, Tyler Booker has been quite prominent. As most people focus on elaborate passes and runs made by quarterbacks, receivers and running backs, Booker has become the hard-working and leading runner for Alabama’s team. What can be said about Milroe’s decision to wear the Booker-themed shirt is that whoever said that the team doesn’t value their lineman was dead wrong—this man is the real deal!

And, of course, for a guy like Booker, it’s not all about physical contact. Yes, indeed, he is a powerhouse, he is robust and powerful on the field, something that has been demonstrated by his performance, but, his leadership is what defines him. “He plays with pride,” Milroe said and that pride translates to how Booker motivates and challenges his fellow team members. Alabama’s offence line has not been so productive during their game against South Florida, 42-16, with left tackle Kadyn Proctor ruled out of the game due to a shoulder injury. During his early years, Tyler Booker moved from a full-back position to take the position of a tackle, while Geno VanDeMark had to take up the position of a guard.

Even though it was quite a difficult day for the O-line, which received several holding penalties and failed to protect the quarterback Jalen Milroe who was under pressure on almost every snap, both the player and the head coach have a lot of positive words concerning Booker. Of the two, DeBoer did not hide the difficulties but was hopeful that Proctor would return for the Wisconsin game. All eyes are on Tyler and Milroe, let’s see, what this duo brings to the table!