STATE COLLEGE — The atmosphere around the Penn State football program is buzzing with energy and optimism, especially with the recent arrival of head coach Matt Campbell. His assistant coaches, who have had the privilege of working alongside him for years, spoke about him with a mix of admiration and enthusiasm during their first press conference together. Ryan Clanton, the new offensive line coach, encapsulated the sentiment by describing Campbell as “the easiest coach in the nation to work for.”
Clanton, who has transitioned to Penn State after spending three seasons under Campbell at Iowa State, highlighted how Campbell fosters a positive working environment. “The working environment makes you a happy employee,” he said. The level of ownership that Campbell grants his staff not only encourages them to take initiative but also motivates them to work harder. “He’s the best head coach in the nation. I’m not just saying that for fun,” Clanton insisted, a testament to the genuine respect he holds for Campbell.
Campbell’s inaugural press conference as the Nittany Lions’ head coach was not just a formality; it was a moment for him to share his vision and philosophy. Twelve members of his coaching staff, who have gathered with him for this new venture, were also available to field questions from the media, emphasizing the collaborative culture Campbell fosters.
During their time together at Iowa State, assistant coaches have come to understand Campbell’s character deeply. They describe him as a genuine and trusting leader, which makes a significant difference in a high-pressure environment like college football. “If you’re a good human,” Clanton continued, “you’re a good developer and you’re putting on film what you’re talking about, your players like and respect you, you’re going to have a great time here.” This mantra reflects the shared values that Campbell instills in his staff.
Noah Pauley, the wide receivers coach who joined Campbell’s staff in 2023, didn’t hesitate when the opportunity arose. “As soon as Matt gave me the call, I wanted to come here,” Pauley stated, clearly captivated by Campbell’s approach. He describes Campbell as an “unbelievable human being” and highlights his exceptional skill in connecting with people. “He’s very clear and concise about what he wants and needs and how to run a program,” Pauley added, showcasing Campbell’s effective communication style.
Considered one of the most underrated coaches in college football, Campbell’s track record speaks volumes. He led Toledo to a commendable 35-15 record before becoming the winningest coach in Iowa State history with a 72-55 record. His assistants attribute a significant portion of his success to the trust he extends to his staff, empowering them to excel in their roles without micromanagement.
Deon Broomfield, the safeties coach who has been with Campbell since 2021, characterized him as “genuine and authentic,” stressing how he allows his assistants to express themselves freely. “You don’t feel like he’s watching your every move. He’s not a micromanager,” Broomfield noted, emphasizing the healthy work-life balance Campbell promotes.
Campbell’s philosophy extends beyond just coaching strategy; he prioritizes the fit of each recruit in the locker room. His assistants echo this sentiment, explaining their approach to recruiting. “We need to bring in guys who are about the team, about winning, and about being extremely competitive,” Pauley articulated. The notion of team chemistry supersedes the allure of flashy athlete statistics, underscoring the importance of character in building a solid team foundation.
Family values also play a crucial role in Campbell’s leadership. His assistant coaches reported that he is intentional about allowing staff members to spend quality time with their families, even ensuring that they have weekends off during the offseason. “He cares about the human being,” Broomfield said, acknowledging Campbell’s investment in the personal lives of his staff and players, framing them as husbands, fathers, and educators first and foremost.
The continuity within Campbell’s staffing reflects his collaborative nature. Bringing along familiar faces from Iowa State to Penn State is a testimony to the strong relationships he nurtures. “You would like to think trust is common in this business,” Broomfield observed, “but that’s a value that Matt holds very, very high.” This trust is not only pivotal in building a cohesive team but also in fostering a culture of mutual respect and accountability.
As the football season draws closer, excitement buzzes around Penn State, especially as the program gears up for its first spring practice. The testimonials from Campbell’s assistants paint a promising picture of a coaching regime rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. “He knows when to push and when to stay back,” Pauley mentioned, highlighting Campbell’s effective leadership style. “He’s hands-on when he needs to be and hands-off when he needs to be. He has a great pulse on the program.”