Jihaad Campbell has quietly become the backbone of an Alabama defense plagued by injuries, putting together a season that could go down in the program’s history books. While Alabama’s defense has not lived up to the dominance of past years under Nick Saban—ranking 34th nationally in total yards allowed per game at 342.6—Campbell has been a standout, excelling in nearly every statistical category.
Through 12 regular-season games, Campbell has amassed 106 total tackles, including 54 solo and 52 assisted, along with 12 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, 2 pass deflections, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, and 2 forced fumbles. He leads the team in every major defensive category, including tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles. These numbers not only highlight his importance to the team but also put him on track for a historically significant season.
Campbell’s current average of 8.83 tackles per game positions him to break into Alabama’s top 10 for single-season tackles. With at least one more game remaining, he could match the 115 tackles recorded by Saleem Rasheed (2001) and Reuben Foster (2016), tied for 8th in program history. If Alabama were to make a run to the National Championship, Campbell’s consistent performance could even surpass Woodrow Lowe’s 134 tackles in 1973, the current record-holder.
Campbell stepped up as a defensive leader following injuries to key players like Que Robinson and Deontae Lawson. Despite being thrust into a prominent role, he has excelled, earning SEC Player of the Week honors after a standout game against LSU and being named a Butkus Award semifinalist. However, Campbell’s contributions seem underappreciated by many fans, who may not realize his potential to achieve one of the best defensive seasons in Alabama history.
If Alabama secures a playoff spot, Campbell’s leadership and playmaking abilities will be critical to their success. It’s time for Alabama fans to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary season Jihaad Campbell is having—and spread the word about his historic impact.
