With the spotlight focused heavily on Penn State’s three transfer wide receivers, a defensive transfer pieced together a strong season opener.
Linebacker Amare Campbell, a recent addition from North Carolina, delivered a standout performance in Penn State’s commanding 46-11 victory over Nevada, proving himself a vital cog in defensive coordinator Jim Knowles’ intricate scheme.
“I did a good job,” Campbell said. “I feel like there’s a lot for me to work on, but I feel like tackling I did very well.”
Campbell’s journey to Happy Valley began this offseason when he transferred from North Carolina, where he tied for second-most tackles on the Tar Heels’ roster in 2024.
Transitioning to Knowles’ aggressive and complex defensive system, known for its exotic fronts and multifaceted packages, is no small feat for any player. Yet Campbell’s debut performance quelled any doubts about his ability to adjust. His six tackles were a testament to his physicality and instincts, but his role extended far beyond individual stats.
Donning the green dot on his helmet, Campbell was responsible for relaying play calls from Jim Knowles to the rest of the defense. Though he held the same responsibility at North Carolina, doing so at Beaver Stadium proved to be a unique experience.
“It was different for sure,” Campbell said. “At North Carolina it wasn’t as loud as it was during the game, but I was able to really focus in on that voice that I’m hearing and just get the call to my teammates.”
Kenan Memorial Stadium — home of the Tar Heels — seats just 50,500, less than half of Beaver Stadium’s capacity even amid renovations.
Since in-helmet technology was introduced last season, the largest crowd Campbell has played in front of was 55,107 at Florida State’s Doak Campbell Stadium, though it was likely much louder when North Carolina’s offense was on the field than when Campbell stepped between the sidelines.
“Just being out there, seeing all the fans in the crowd, it was crazy,” Campbell said. “I definitely felt the energy.”
An unintended complication of raucous crowds disrupting opposing offenses is the same effect occurring on their own defense.
Former Nittany Lion Kobe King spoke about last season, saying he had difficulties deciphering calls from Tom Allen, which resulted in Dan Connor taking over the mic midway through the season.
“It was solid; it was good. (Knowles) was clear cut, said the call twice,” Campbell said.
With no issues leading the defense or relaying calls, Campbell didn’t have many issues to work out. He did have one critique for his performance, though.
“I’d like to see more play recognition, seeing a certain play in the first quarter and maybe seeing that same play the second quarter, just knowing what to do quicker, being able to process faster.”
Campbell’s self-critique highlights his growth mindset, a trait that bodes well for his development within Penn State’s defense. Knowles’ system thrives on players who can process information quickly and adapt on the fly, and Campbell’s ability to identify areas for improvement suggests he’s well-suited for the role.
As Penn State charges into a promising season, Campbell’s emergence as a defensive leader could be a defining factor. His blend of physicality, quick thinking and composure under pressure positions him as a key piece in Knowles’ scheme, ready to quietly anchor the Nittany Lions’ defense.
