Boom! New Appalachian State Mountaineers head coach Dowell Loggains jump into recruitment of top 6-2, 215- pound linebacker from the transfer portal

Dowell Loggains, the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at South Carolina, has been named the new head football coach at Appalachian State.

Athletics Director Doug Gillin announced the hiring on Saturday after interim Chancellor Heather Norris and the school’s board of trustees approved Loggains on Saturday.

Loggains, 44, succeeds Shawn Clark, who was fired on Monday after the Mountaineers finished the year 5-6, the team’s first losing season since 2013. Loggains was to be formally introduced at a news conference at noon on Monday in the Grandview Ballroom at Kidd Brewer Stadium.

“My family and I are thrilled to join the Mountaineer family and build on the rich championship tradition of App State Football,” Loggains said. “We are eager to become part of the community, engage with the student-athletes and fans, and give our All for App State.”

Before serving as South Carolina’s offensive coordinator for the last two seasons, Loggains was an assistant for two years at Arkansas, his alma mater, after spending 16 years in the NFL with time as an offensive coordinator or quarterbacks coach for the Tennessee Titans (2010-13), Cleveland Browns (2014), Chicago Bears (2015-17), Miami Dolphins (2018) and New York Jets (2019-20).

The South Carolina offense led by Loggains this season has the third-best rushing offense in the SEC at 188.9 yards per game while ranking top 50 in the country in scoring, yardage, rushing, first downs and completion percentage.

In a bold and strategic move, new Appalachian State Mountaineers head coach Dowell Loggains has wasted no time making his presence felt on the recruiting trail. Loggains has reportedly prioritized the pursuit of 6-foot-2, 215-pound linebacker Amare Campbell, who recently became the first UNC starter to enter the transfer portal.

 

This recruitment push highlights Loggains’ intent to make an immediate impact at Appalachian State, signaling a new era of competitiveness and ambition for the program.

 

Amare Campbell: A Coveted Talent

 

Standout linebacker Amare Campbell plans to enter the transfer portal. He is the Tar Heels’ most significant portal departure so far and the first starter to exit. Campbell made a leap forward this season as a sophomore at North Carolina, recording 72 tackles, 6.5 sacks and a forced fumble. Campbell’s sack count tied him for the most on the team. (Inside Carolina)

 

 

 

At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Campbell’s physical attributes make him an ideal linebacker for any system. He has the size and strength to shed blocks and make tackles in the backfield, combined with the speed and agility to cover tight ends and running backs in the passing game.

 

His decision to enter the transfer portal has sparked interest from multiple programs, but Appalachian State’s proactive approach under Coach Loggains puts the Mountaineers in a strong position to land this game-changing talent.

 

Dowell Loggains: Building a New Legacy

 

Dowell Loggains, who took over as head coach for Appalachian State, is known for his innovative offensive schemes and strong player development track record. However, his quick jump into recruiting defensive talent like Campbell shows his commitment to building a balanced and competitive team.

 

Loggains’ NFL background and ability to connect with players make him an appealing figure for recruits. By targeting Campbell, Loggains sends a clear message: Appalachian State is aiming to attract top-tier talent and compete with the best programs in the country.

 

Why Appalachian State?

 

The Mountaineers have a storied tradition in college football, particularly as a dominant force in the Sun Belt Conference. Under Loggains’ leadership, they are looking to reassert themselves as a powerhouse program.

 

For Amare Campbell, Appalachian State offers:

 

1. Immediate Playing Time: With the departure of key defensive players, Campbell would likely step into a starting role.

 

 

2. Leadership Opportunities: Campbell’s experience at UNC makes him a natural leader for a defense that is in transition.

 

 

3. Pro Development: Loggains’ connections and coaching pedigree could help Campbell prepare for the next level.

 

 

The Transfer Portal’s Impact

 

Campbell’s entry into the transfer portal underscores the growing mobility of college athletes and the opportunities available to both players and programs. For Appalachian State, the portal provides access to Power Five-caliber talent, while for Campbell, it offers a chance to redefine his college football journey in a program where he can thrive.

 

Recruitment Race

 

While Appalachian State appears to be a frontrunner, other programs are expected to pursue Campbell aggressively. Dowell Loggains’ ability to make a strong pitch will be critical in securing Campbell’s commitment.

 

The Mountaineers’ focus on recruiting high-impact transfers like Campbell demonstrates a shift in strategy, aiming to capitalize on the portal to address immediate needs and build long-term success.

 

What’s Next?

 

If Appalachian State successfully lands Amare Campbell, it would be a major victory for the program and an early win for Coach Loggains. Campbell’s presence would not only elevate the defense but also set a tone for the type of talent Loggains aims to attract in his tenure.

 

As the recruitment process unfolds, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if the Mountaineers can secure this pivotal addition to their roster. Campbell’s decision will not only shape his future but could also mark the beginning of a new chapter in Appalachian State football.