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Hendon Hooker explains what impact OL Cooper Mays has had on the offense

On3 imageby:Dan Morrison•11/16/22•

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When looking at the Tennessee offense, it’s easy to become infatuated with quarterback Hendon Hooker and the many outside wide receiving threats that he has. Those players do deserve credit for their success. At the same time, without great offensive line play, it wouldn’t be possible for these skill players to excel.

One of those key offensive linemen is Cooper Mays, the Tennessee center and brother of Cade Mays. He was named SEC lineman of the week and is incredibly important to the offensive success according to Hendon Hooker.

“He’s being a great communicator for me in the back, in the backfield,” Hendon Hooker explained. “And then just the rest of the security up front.”

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“Just being that force up front is huge for us, and then being on the same page. That’s a huge deal. If everyone isn’t on the same page, then the play is dead. It starts with them just bringing that energy every day and positive vibes whenever we’re at practice.”

Hendon Hooker emphasized that it’s not just Cooper Mays’ talent, but his leadership that’s so important to Tennessee’s offense. He makes sure that everyone is lined up properly and that everyone is practicing with all the energy and effort that they need to every day.

“He’s always cracking a couple jokes, keeping us uplifted, through the hard days of practice and camp. You know, he’s a great guy to work with.”

Hendon Hooker on Jalin Hyatt’s homecoming

As Tennessee prepares to take on South Carolina, the game is going to be a kind of homecoming for wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. Hendon Hooker explained what to expect from Hyatt.

“You know, anytime you go home to play, it’s a great feeling,” Hendon Hooker said.

“And, J Hyatt plays with a chip on his shoulder week in and week out. His competitive fire is amazing. I just want to match it whenever we’re out there together, and you can see the intensity that he plays with when he catches the ball. He’s playing very physical right now.”