Update Interview with Skilled 2021 Itawamba JUCO All Conference HB/RB Tyler Day
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
As slick as the modern Spread attack is at the collegiate level, nothing gets done moving the chains down the field without that do-all athlete on the gridiron setting the grind-it-out tone for the offense. At Itawamba Community College, that all-around talent smashing facemasks on short-yardage plays while opening holes for his running backs was Tyler Day.
After a standout high school career with North Little Rock that included a 7A Arkansas state championship in 2017 (13-0) and a runner-up finish in 2018 (12-1), Day took his talents to the JUCO level working in with Itawamba’s attack as a running back, H-back, fullback, and tight end. At 6-4, 230-pounds, Day flashed the speed and power taking on defensive linemen and linebackers in the running game while hauling in passes in the aerial attack. The result of his hard work and efforts was MACCC All-Conference honors in 2020.
The focus for Day now turns to recruiting. After graduating from Itawamba in December, Day is looking for that four-year program fit. Interest has come in from Arkansas State, Central Florida, and Hawaii.
In an RNG update interview, Day stopped by the Lab covering ground on his developing skills at the junior college level.
Interview
Tyler, the Itawamba offense got it going in the limited five-game schedule averaging 25.8 points per game. The attack was pass-heavy, what was the philosophy of the offense?
It was a Spread with an H-back/ tight end. We did not run much; we’d pass the ball 70 percent of the time.
Being that versatile talent that can do all in and out of the backfield, which positions did you play during the 2020 season?
I was pretty much everywhere from outside receiver, to the slot, H-back, tight end, and running back. I can be a decoy or make plays at those positions.
As that H-back/tight end, how did your skillset grow as a blocking and receiving threat on the field?
That is something I have been doing my whole life, making plays at the fullback and running back positions. The transition to H-back/tight end at the college level was not something new to me. At tight end, I got stronger which allowed me to take on defensive ends and linemen working up to the backer. I got my footwork and technique down. Going out wide, as a blocker I was breaking down more and became more agile to block defensive backs. They will make a move on you trying to get you to miss.
Getting those handoffs on the short-yardage plays, how did your overall skills grow as a running back?
My vision got better. I did not have that many big runs this year. With the transition from high school to college, I have that running back mentality. This season I showed again that I can make plays out of the backfield.
Because you were doing a lot within the offense, are there traits to your game that might not show up on game film?
My speed for sure. I got a lot faster since my high school career and from my freshman year. In the 40, I went from a 4.65 to a 4.58. I have been training with JJ Meadors. Another trait is my run after the catch. I have film on that. Also, my one-on-one balls in the red zone, those things you don’t get to see on film.
Playing high school ball for North Little, which positions were you playing then?
Running back and tight end.
At which position are college teams recruiting you to play?
Mostly tight end or running back.
Crushing defenders the way that you were shows your power transitioning over from the weight room. The last time you maxed out, what did you post?
My power clean was 315 and my squat was 500-even.
Very impressive.
Thank you.
Looking at recruiting, what is your vision for the ideal collegiate fit?
I will play anywhere, a P5 or a G5. I feel like I can dominate, especially on the west coast area in those kind of offenses.
You’ve played at a high level in high school and now have two years of JUCO football experience behind you, what do you feel separates you from other 2021 recruits?
My physicality and my size. I have gotten more explosive over the years too. My football IQ is a big difference. I study the game every day. That translates onto the field with me being more effective for my team putting it all together.
Tyler, it was great catching up with you today. Wishing you continued success with your offseason workouts and with your recruiting process.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Itawamba JUCO/Day family; Tyler Day