Backup offensive lineman impresses in starting role

Offensive line coach Kyle DeVan goes over a play during the Cardinals’ game against Northern Illinois on Oct. 1 in Scheumann Stadium. Ball State lost 31 to 24. Paige Grider// DNBall State offensive lineman Kadin Booker isn't an ordinary backup.

When senior Steve Bell missed time in the offseason with an injury, Booker took first, second and even third team reps. He's had the same training as a starter, and with Bell sidelined by a foot injury, Booker has started the last two games for the Cardinals — and hasn't skipped a beat.

"Game 1 was just OK," said offensive line coach Kyle DeVan. "I thought Game 2, golly, he got better. He got better from the first quarter of Game 1 to the fourth…