Joe Milton updates Hendon Hooker's mindset during bowl week

When Tennessee quarterback Hendon Hooker went down with a torn ACL, it looked like Tennessee’s magical season was over. Luckily, the Volunteers’ had an experienced and talented backup in Joe Milton who is close with Hooker to see them through the year.

Prior to the Orange Bowl, Joe Milton was asked about Hendon Hooker, in particular how he’s been doing following surgery.

“He’s doing great,” Joe Milton said. “You know, high spirits.”

“I just talked to him this morning. He was pretty much just warning me about y’all. He just told me to go have fun, for real, but he told me to tell y’all, ‘Hey, I hope y’all are doing good.’ He misses y’all. But, other than that, man, he’s just high spirits.”

Joe Milton was then asked a quick follow-up question about where Hendon Hooker was and if he was able to make the trip to the Orange Bowl.

“He’s here right now,” Joe Milton quickly replied.

2022 was Tennessee’s first 10-win season since 2007 when Phillip Fulmer was still coaching the team. It’s also been since 2004 that the Volunteers went to and won a major bowl game. That was the Cotton Bowl. This season wouldn’t have been possible without Hendon Hooker. Now, it’s Joe Milton’s job to finish strong.

The Orange Bowl will be played on Friday, December 30th against Clemson.

How Hendon Hooker helped Joe Milton on the sidelines

In the final game of the season against Vanderbilt, Tennessee was forced to start Joe Milton. It ended up being a blowout win and Milton credited Hooker for helping him on the sidelines of that game.

“I mean, he was pretty much saying either it was a good job or just fix my eyes on certain plays, but I mean anything it was,” Milton said.

“You know, I’m not big on falling back on criticism. I love it. So, from him, it’s great. He’s gonna help me, regardless of the situation. So, it was great.”