Tim Campbell has passed away
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Earl Campbell may have been the Heisman Trophy winner, but Tim Campbell carved out his own successful path on the football field and in life. From 1975 to 1979, Tim set impressive records, including 39½ career sacks and nine fumble recoveries, tying him for second all-time in University of Texas history. He played defense alongside Outland Trophy winner Brad Shearer and future Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McMichael during the 1977 season.
Tim’s 14 sacks in 1977 set a program record, which was later surpassed by Kiki DeAyala, who recorded 22½ sacks in 1982. Tim was named a first-team All-Southwest Conference selection that year.
In the 1975 Bluebonnet Bowl, Tim was pivotal in the comeback against Colorado, blocking a punt and returning it for a touchdown. Texas won the game 38-21, and Tim was named the Defensive MVP, while Earl Campbell earned the Offensive MVP after rushing for 95 yards on 19 carries.
Unfortunately, Tim ruptured his Achilles tendon the following week against Wyoming, sidelining him for the rest of the season. The NCAA granted him a medical hardship, allowing him to play an additional year. Despite being small and wiry, Tim was extremely quick, which helped him tie Steve McMichael for sacks in 1979.
One of the great moments for the Campbell family occurred during the 1975 Bluebonnet Bowl when Tim, as a freshman, blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown. This key play helped Texas erase a 21-7 deficit. Tim led the 1977 team with 14 sacks, contributing to their impressive 11-0 record before losing to Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl.
Tim and his twin brother Steve were just a year younger than Earl Campbell.
Scott Morris Rest easy, Tim
Melvin Pat Patterson So sad. Great family
Jimmy McDavid Hate to hear that, he was a vibrant and uplifting assistant coach when I knew him!
Mark DodsonHe was lots of fun always joking he will be missed for the Campbell family
Phil KrauterGreat player back when we had a slew of undersized defensive ends that could ball
Tony DegrateHe had such a presence and calming demeanor that offered lots of laughter. I was truly blessed to have known him and family
Danny GloverI’m so sorry! I had to look it up, ‘cuz I thought I remembered Earl had two brothers who played for the ‘Horns: Tim and twin brother Steve. Condolences to the Campbell family!
David BalesGreat guy, always laughing and smiling – wishing peace to the Campbell family
Brian K. McCleskeyTerrible news.
The Campbell twins, Steve and brother #86 Tim Campbell.
Steve, on the left, is with his twin brother Ti
Tony Manzano My prayers for Tim and his family. Hookem Horns
Larry Carlson Kind of unbelievable that Tim is somewhat forgotten as a truly great player from his era. He was a deluxe pass rusher and master of making plays. Kiki DeAyala passed him as UT’s all-time king of sacks just a few years later. Nobody has even approached the numbers those two men put up while hunting down quarterbacks. Rest in peace, Tim.
Edward Willis I knew Tim from my family’s annual visits to Tyler. Tim, Steve, and Earl were a rugged bunch. I only had the chance to play a pickup game with them on one occasion. It was a blast. We always talked about playing against each other in the state playoffs. It never happened, but it would have been so cool. G-d bless Tim, and continue to bless the Campbells.
Paul Alexander Extremely saddened to learn this news.
I remember him as a very, very good guy.
Daphne Dunlap KonderlaD@!# Cancer. What a fun guy but also considerate and dedicated. He had a long career with Tyler Parks and Recreation, retired, then started another career. Always on the go. Great father too. His son is an attorney in Houston I believe. He will be missed.
Phil KrauterGreat player back when we had a slew of undersized defensive ends that could ball
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