Following his term of duty at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina, Tyler earned his college degrees at the University of Mississippi.
Tyler continued his career in the collegiate ranks, as receivers coach on Johnny Vaught's Ole Miss Rebel staff.
He later worked as an assistant under Bear Bryant at the University of Alabama before moving to Mississippi State as offensive coordinator.
Tyler was named head coach of the Bulldogs in 1973 and led State to a 9–3 season in the tough Southeastern Conference and a victory in the 1974 Sun Bowl over North Carolina.
Mississippi State was placed on probation by the NCAA prior to the 1975 season due to alleged improper benefits to student athletes.