Campbell Knows B1G Games Present Challenges

Campbell Knows B1G Games Present Challenges

Oct. 26, 2012

Video Interview with Coach Campbell

SKOKIE, Ill. — After coaching in the Big Ten for 18 seasons, University of Iowa wide receivers coach Erik Campbell knows that each conference game is a battle. Saturday’s contest at Northwestern is no exception.

Campbell, who spent 13 years at Michigan and is in his fifth year at Iowa, knows the Wildcats will present a challenge in all facets of the game.

“Northwestern is a very challenging team,” Campbell said. “They are explosive, offensively and defensively, and are very sound. We have to play a complete game in all phases to have a victory.”

In order to play a complete game, Campbell’s group of wide receivers will have to perform at a high level. Senior Keenan Davis has emerged as the leader of the receiving corps and Campbell has watched the Cedar Rapids mature throughout his career.

“Keenan has improved every year since he has been at Iowa,” Campbell said. “This year, he is having a good year. He’s working hard in practice and you can see the improvement. Every game he is getting better and better and becoming more of a complete receiver, both in the run game and the pass game.”

Junior Jordan Cotton has also been a bright spot for Campbell’s group. Cotton caught his first career touchdown against Minnesota and also took a kickoff 92 yards for a score against Penn State. Campbell has enjoyed watching Cotton progress this season.

“It’s great to see Jordan having fun playing football,” Campbell said. “He has the opportunity to be in big roles and be part of the team. He can make explosive plays in the kick game and the pass game. It’s good to see him come along.”

Kickoff in Evanston is set for 11 a.m. on Saturday. The game can be seen live on ESPN2.