I didn’t say he can’t get in without a hook, just mentioned that odds are not in favor of unhooked applicants as hardly 1/8th spots are really open for non hooked so no matter how good you are, there are factors beyond your control, like statistics and luck.
Neither did i say every hooked applicant can get in, but hooked and unhooked aren’t competing for same spots.
No need to take too much pressure or have unrealistic expectations. Don’t put all your eggs into an ivy basket. Even if you do get in, unless you can afford full pay or qualify for enough need based aid, it may not work out for you. There are other great colleges and you’ll do fine.