Tennessee Football Player’s Viral Block Leaves Fans Astonished
Tennessee football fans were already familiar with John Campbell, the Miami transfer offensive tackle who had gained a reputation for his love of Waffle House. However, Campbell recently introduced himself to the rest of college football with a jaw-dropping block that left fans in awe.
During Tennessee’s dominant 49-13 victory over Virginia, Campbell executed a block that drove a Virginia defender nearly to the tunnel. The video of the block quickly went viral, capturing the attention of fans across social media platforms.
Campbell’s phone began buzzing with notifications as the video continued to circulate. His block had become a sensation, and he couldn’t help but be amazed by the response. Even on Tuesday, his phone was still blowing up with messages.
The block occurred on a touchdown run by Dylan Sampson. Campbell collided with a Virginia linebacker at the goal line, forcefully driving him out of the back of the end zone and into the TV cameras. As the play concluded, Campbell tossed the Virginia player to the turf, just shy of the wall.
Initially, Campbell didn’t think much of his block and assumed only his teammates and the coaching staff had noticed it. However, the ABC broadcast captured the moment, catapulting Campbell’s viral fame.
Holly Elarbee, wife of UT offensive line coach Glen Elarbee, was the first to inform Campbell about his newfound internet stardom. Campbell was astounded by the attention, particularly since he had never been featured on ESPN before.
The play showcased Campbell’s talent and highlighted his ability to make crucial blocks. Coming to UT from Miami, Campbell sought to gain more exposure, and the reach of Tennessee’s passionate fanbase on social media certainly helped him achieve that goal.
As a lineman in the SEC, Campbell faces off against some of the best pass rushers in college football. Yet, it was his block on that particular run play that catapulted him into the spotlight.
Reflecting on the viral block, Campbell expressed his desire to be noticed and acknowledged for his plays, particularly after feeling overlooked during his time at Miami. Coming to UT presented an opportunity for him to showcase his skills and make an impact.
For the team, watching the film session must have been an enjoyable experience, especially when the tape paused on Campbell’s remarkable block. Ollie Lane, the center for Tennessee, likened it to a scene from The Blind Side where Michael Oher drives a defender off the field and tosses him over a wall.
Campbell’s dedication and effort motivated his teammates, and defensive tackle Omarr Norman-Lott couldn’t help but express his disbelief that the Virginia defender didn’t try harder to save face during the play.
Campbell’s debut game as a starter at left tackle saw him play 59 offensive snaps in the blowout victory. His viral block not only solidified his place in the team’s lineup but also earned him recognition beyond Tennessee.
As Campbell continues to make plays and leave a lasting impact on games, his viral block will always be remembered as the groundbreaking moment that propelled him into the spotlight.
