Tyler Van Dyke explains the differences in being a Week 1 starter: 'I'm the guy now'

Tyler Van Dyke is entering the 2022 season much differently than he did in 2021. Last season he was the backup behind D’Eriq King heading into the opener against Alabama. This season will be his turn to be the opening day starter for No. 16 Miami against Bethune-Cookman.

Being the starter for the Hurricanes comes with a lot of responsibility. Doing so from the start this time around should benefit Van Dyke, but it’s still a different feel. When asked about it during media on Tuesday, though, he says it’s nothing new to him. While he was QB2 on the depth chart to start last year, he always carried himself and prepared as a starter.

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“I mean it’s different just because of that aspect. I’m the guy going into week one, but my preparation hasn’t been any different from this year to last year,” said Van Dyke. “I always watched film like I was a starter, I always practiced like I was a starter. (My) preparation is the same.”

King’s shoulder injury in the Hurricanes third game wasn’t ideal for last season’s team. However, it built Van Dyke up to be a worthy starter for this year’s roster. Starting the Hurricanes final nine games of 2021 gave him his opportunity to build this confidence. With the production and talent all there for Van Dyke, he says there is just one responsibility for a starter that he’s still getting the hang of.

“Leadership wise it’s different,” Van Dyke said. “I’m the guy now so I have to make sure those guys always stay positive and always are ready to work.”

Tyler Van Dyke has been preparing for this chance his whole life. He got a taste of it last season and now he’s ready for the full course of Miami’s 12-game slate. Van Dyke led The U to a 6-3 record with all three losses coming by just one score. If he can improve his numbers and this roster from the jump, it’ll go a long way in making a contender down in Coral Gables.