Interview: 3-Star 2021 Missouri SS Tyler Hibbler is an Enforcer for Trinity Catholic
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Opposing 3A Missouri offenses that lined up against Trinity Catholic during the 2019 season were well-aware of No. 8. Whether a team was run-first or a pass happy Spread attack, Tyler Hibbler was there to enforce his will against others. The 6-0, 185-pound, defender would go down in the box or protect the end zone coming up with 59 stops, 32 solo, with seven tackles for a loss, four passes broken up while forcing two fumbles and picked two up. The speed, power, and instincts for the game have led to 12 offers being dropped on the three-star’s doorstep with interest rising.
In an RNG first-look, Hibbler steps inside the Lab getting fired up over talking football and recruiting.
Interview
Tyler, you were a versatile defender during the 2019 season able to play deep, in the box, and as an outside linebacker/nickel hybrid. How did you prepare for each game during the season to take on all of those challenges?
“At the beginning of the week it was about going over the formations – if they run-heavy, I’ll be in the box or if they are a passing team, I will be deep. I watched a lot of film.”
When a ball carrier is coming your way, you do not shy away from contact. It appears you like to send a message to the opposition with your hits.
“Yeah, I like to send a message.”
What gets you going to flip that switch come game time to dole out the punishment?
“I don’t know honestly. When the ball is kicked off, I am ready to go. I know it is time to go. You are getting me excited right now.”
I can tell in your voice. How did your overall game improve as a defensive back last season?
“Last year, I got more comfortable. I wasn’t comfortable in the box my sophomore season and I was not as smart. I got smarter, more comfortable, and I got faster at knowing what was going on. That came with watching film.”
Of all the games played last season, which was your best game performance?
“Dang. I think either the Cassville or Lutheran North game.”
What did you do well in those games?
“Attack, attack, attack. I kept my foot on their neck. Both games were against running teams. I brought it to them.”
Did you get to play some offense last season?
“A little bit, as an option QB.”
Did you have fun doing that?
“Yeah. That was really fun.”
Are you taking on any new roles in 2020?
“This year, you might see more on offense. On defense, I almost play everything already. I will probably have a bigger role on offense this year.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“Speed. I am running track. That is the biggest thing to work on. I am fast, but I want to be faster. I want to be known for my speed.”
If you will, update me on recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Texas A&M, Wisconsin, and Georgia Tech.”
How many offers are you holding?
“Twelve.”
Hibbler’s Offer Sheet: Arkansas, Arkansas State, Iowa State, Kansas, Kentucky, Liberty, Memphis, Miami-Ohio, Nebraska, Northern Illinois, Toledo, and West Virginia
Extending back to last season, have you taken any visits over the last few months?
“Yes. I took a Junior Day visit to Miami-Ohio, Nebraska, Northern Illinois and Iowa State.”
How did the Nebraska trip go?
“It was a good visit. I liked it. I like Coach (Travis) Fisher (DB).”
And the Iowa State visit, how did that go?
“That was probably the best. I probably liked that one the most. The environment at Iowa State, they welcomed me.”
When the opportunity opens back up, are you planning on taking any visits?
“Georgia Tech, Kansas, and Iowa State.”
Are those all unofficial visits?
“I’m planning on taking an official with Iowa State in July.”
That will be fun. In the recruiting process, what is important for you as you narrow down the schools that you like the most?
“The things that are important to me, I’m looking for somewhere I can play. If it is a big named school or not, it does not have to be. I am looking for a home atmosphere where all the teammates get a long and bond with their coaches.”
Tyler, it was fun talking football with you today. Thanks for your time and good luck with the grind this spring.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Hibbler family; Tyler Hibbler