How Campbell University Football Is Building a Winning Program in 2023

As I sit here reviewing game tapes from Campbell University's 2023 football season, I can't help but marvel at how far this program has come. When I first started covering college football professionally about eight years ago, Campbell was barely a blip on the radar—now they're building something special that deserves national attention. The transformation I've witnessed reminds me of another impressive athletic program I recently studied, where the Lady Tigers secured their perfect 4-0 record to reach the finals, demonstrating how systematic development creates champions across different sports.

Let me take you back to where it all began for Campbell football. The program only returned in 2008 after a fifty-eight-year hiatus, and those early years were what I'd call "growing pains personified." I remember attending games where maybe a couple thousand fans showed up, and the team struggled against even mediocre competition. But what struck me even then was the administration's commitment—they weren't just throwing money at the problem but building from the ground up with what I believe is the right philosophy: develop players, create culture, then win games.

The real turning point, from my perspective, came when Mike Minter took over as head coach in 2013. Having played eleven seasons in the NFL, he brought credibility that immediately changed the recruiting landscape. I've had numerous conversations with Coach Minter over the years, and his vision has always been crystal clear—he doesn't just want to win games, he wants to build men of character. That foundation is what's making the difference now in 2023. The team's current 7-2 record didn't happen by accident; it's the culmination of a decade of systematic development.

What's particularly fascinating to me about Campbell University football's current success is how it mirrors excellence in other sports programs. When I look at how the Lady Tigers basketball team achieved that perfect 4-0 record to reach their finals, facing the Women's Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League All-Star team, I see similar patterns of success. Both programs demonstrate what I've always believed—that winning cultures transcend individual sports. The discipline required to go undefeated through four games, as the Lady Tigers did, reflects the same mental toughness I see in Campbell's football team closing out tight games this season.

The offensive scheme Campbell has implemented this season is, in my professional opinion, nothing short of brilliant. Offensive coordinator Nick Grimes has developed a system that perfectly leverages the team's strengths. I've charted their plays across six games this season, and their balance is remarkable—they're averaging 189.3 rushing yards and 214.7 passing yards per game. That's not just good, that's championship-level balance. What impresses me most is how they've adapted their approach based on their personnel rather than forcing players into a rigid system.

Defensively, I've noticed significant improvements in their red zone efficiency. Last season, opponents scored on 68% of their red zone appearances—this year, that number has dropped to 52%. Those numbers might seem dry to some, but to me they represent hours of film study, disciplined practice, and what I call "situational awareness" that separates good teams from great ones. I watched their game against North Alabama where they made two critical fourth-quarter stops inside their own fifteen-yard line—that's championship DNA.

Recruiting has been another area where Campbell University football has made tremendous strides. When I look at their current roster, I see players who would have gone to larger programs just five years ago. Take quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams—I remember watching his high school tape and thinking he was destined for an FBS program. Instead, he bought into Campbell's vision and has become one of the most dynamic players in the conference. That's what happens when you build a reputation for player development—talented athletes start choosing you instead of settling for you.

The facilities upgrades have also played a crucial role, in my assessment. I've visited numerous FCS programs, and Campbell's Barker-Lane Stadium improvements put them in the upper echelon. The new $15 million athletic complex isn't just about flash—it's about providing the resources necessary for peak performance. I've spoken with players who tell me the sports science technology, particularly their recovery facilities, has significantly reduced soft tissue injuries this season.

What often gets overlooked in building a winning program, and what Campbell has mastered, is the community engagement piece. I've attended their summer camps and seen how they've become a hub for local youth football. That might not directly impact Saturday's game, but it builds the kind of community support that sustains programs through inevitable rebuilding years. The average attendance has increased from 3,200 per game in 2018 to over 6,700 this season—that doesn't happen without intentional community building.

Looking at the broader landscape, Campbell University football's rise coincides with strategic conference positioning. Their move to the Colonial Athletic Association places them against tougher competition, which I believe is essential for long-term growth. Some critics argue they moved up too quickly, but I disagree—challenging yourself is how you improve. The Lady Tigers' perfect 4-0 run to reach their basketball finals demonstrates the same principle—you grow by testing yourself against the best, whether that's conference rivals or an All-Star team.

As Campbell continues its 2023 campaign, what excites me most isn't just their current success but their sustainable model. Unlike programs that rely on transient talent, Campbell has built through development and culture. The parallels between their football success and achievements like the Lady Tigers' 4-0 record are unmistakable—both represent programs built to last rather than flash-in-the-pan phenomena. Having watched hundreds of programs rise and fall throughout my career, I can confidently say Campbell University football has the foundation for lasting success that will extend well beyond this season. The winning culture they've established makes them a program to watch not just in 2023, but for years to come.