WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Following four years of record-setting performances by his predecessor, one of which was a year of tutelage under Mark Herrmann, Scott Campbell became the top pupil in the next quarterback class.
And, if the Purdue record book offers any evidence, Boilermaker fans could make a strong case that this quarterback was the best thing to come out of Hershey, Pa., since the Kiss.
Campbell put up incredible numbers - including a 516-yard passing effort at Ohio State in 1981 - and, for 16 years, ranked second to his predecessor in virtually every category in school history. He now ranks fifth with 7,636 yards and 45 touchdowns.
Campbell was Purdue's 1983 team Most Valuable Player and graduated as the Big Ten's second all-time passing leader - trailing only Herrmann. Campbell played six years in the NFL with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Atlanta Falcons and then joined the Ottawa Rough Riders of the Canadian Football League briefly before retiring.
Campbell will be recognized during Purdue's Nov. 13 home game vs. Michigan.
In recognition of its "Cradle of Quarterbacks" heritage and with help from thousands of on-line voters this spring, Purdue's Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, in conjunction with "Gold & Black Illustrated" and the Office of Trademark Licensing, has selected Purdue's top 12 quarterbacks of all-time from a list of 31 multiple-time starters.
A different quarterback will be highlighted each week during the 2010 season. Several will appear on campus during the fall and will be honored at President's Council pregame programs and during games.