Ty Goes to the Runner

For Tyquan King, each tackle is more than just a number; it's evidence of his character, strength, and determination. Because of his perseverance and hard work, the redshirt junior linebacker from Connecticut is currently Temple University's top tackler and one of the best in the American Athletic Conference. From an ankle injury in week three to a breakout game in his first start as an Owl during week four, King is making one thing clear: every setback leads towards a major comeback. But this isn't just another comeback; this time it's a statement. Every tackle, every play, is King proving that he's built for the spotlight.

King found his way to Temple after spending two seasons at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University (NCA&T) and a year at East Carolina University (ECU), where he has had a significant influence on and off the field. During his freshman year at NCA&T, he had a standout performance against Charleston Southern, where he recorded 15 tackles and 2.0 sacks, earning him Big South freshman of the week. The true freshman went on to record 33 tackles that season, playing in nine games with one start. This season, King has recorded double-digit tackles in three consecutive games against Utah State, Army, and the UConn.

Not only has he become a heavy-hitter for Temple's defense, he's stepped into more of a leadership role. King says, "I encourage my teammates by telling them they can't give up. I just remind them what we're here for." Regardless of the situation, King is thought of by the squad as a reliable member. Because of his consistency and dedication, he is a player who is always willing to stand up when called upon, both on and off the field. Whether it's a hard practice or a pivotal moment in the game, King's teammates know they can rely on him to always give it his all. In addition to earning him respect, his reliability has been crucial to the team's success.

It wasn't an easy road for King to become Temple's defensive powerhouse. He had to make a difficult choice because of his limited playing time at ECU last year, which made him question if that was the right fit. King knew he wouldn't get the opportunities he needed at ECU, so he made the decision to leave at the beginning of the season, after just three games. He said, "Temple saved me during one of the darkest times of my life." Despite the fact that the transfer portal can be frightening for any athlete, King was reassured by Temple's defensive coordinator Everett Withers' care and interest in him. Considering the close bond he developed with the coaching staff, he said, "Coach [Chris] Woods took the time to help me and do his research about me, so I felt influenced to come here." Regardless of forming strong bonds early on, King faced the challenge of standing out among over 40 new players Temple brought in this past offseason. As a newcomer himself, he was determined to make his presence known.

After not being selected for the starting lineup, that switched the gears for the linebacker. He stayed disciplined, hungry, and motivated to become the best of the best. As a true owl would do if released from its cage, he soared to new heights. King has now gotten confident in his starting position, which he embraced following linebacker Eric Stuart's week three injury, and rose to the occasion as his team was counting on him to step into the starting role. He made his first appearance in the Cherry and White during the matchup between Temple and Oklahoma, recording six tackles and one sack. The following week, he picked up five tackles in Temple's loss to Navy. An ankle injury limited him against Coastal Carolina during week three, but he responded in the best way possible. In his first start of the season, King had himself a day with a team-high of 13 tackles. King's hometown game versus UConn has been one of the highlights of his season thus far. In front of his loved ones, he recorded a remarkable 15 tackles and a forced fumble, making it a day that will never be forgotten by him or his family.

One of the most admirable aspects of King's transfer experience is the relationship he created with the Temple community, especially with the younger supporters who look up to him. For him, it's about his ability to have an effect off the field, not simply about playing the game. He understands the difficulties the neighborhood faces and how his position may encourage resiliency and hope. King reflected on his delight in inspiring children to see potential for themselves, regardless of their surroundings, and said, "I like to give motivation because where we live isn't the best." King is committed to making a difference by supporting them both on and off the field because he understands that occasionally a young person's life can alter drastically with just a few words of support.

As he looks to the future, King's biggest goal is to make the most of his final season in college. He is completely dedicated to perfecting and sharpening his abilities in order to improve his position on the squad, in addition to preparing for his ultimate goal of joining the NFL. King vows to seize any chance for improvement that comes his way since he recognizes that every day is an opportunity. He is prepared to make an impact at Temple and beyond as he takes on new challenges on and off the field. King is aware that willpower has formed his path, and that same determination will carry him into his next phase.

Temple University Athletics

Ty Goes to the Runner

Players Mentioned

Tyquan King

Eric Stuart

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