With an angry running style reminiscent of Earl Campbell and Isiah Pacheco, Cam Skattebo has left an indelible mark on football fans' memories.
The Giants tailback has never been afraid to dole out punishment to opposition defenders, routinely crashing into their chest plates before leaving them lying in his wake.
Those tasked with watching Skattebo take on front sevens note that the former Arizona State star employs a unique ritual before leaping into the mire. Like clockwork, Skattebo's runs are accompanied by a violent head shake.
Some expressed worry that it was a sign of a potential injury. Skattebo assuaged those fears with a simple but effective explanation.
Here's what you need to know about the origins of Skattebo's head-shaking habit.
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Why does Cam Skattebo shake his head during games?
Naturally, those encountering Skattebo's head-shaking routine for the first time could grow concerned over the violent nature of his pre-snap process.
However, it's not an injury, nor a tic. Rather, it's a voluntary gesture he developed as a response to his helmet sticking to his face.
"My helmet used to stick to my face and my sweat would dry up," Skattebo told the "PHNX Sun Devils" podcast in Oct. 2024. He explained that the issue was more prevalent when he had less hair and no beard.
It’s been asked a million times, why does Cam Skattebo shake his head so often during the game? 🤔
— PHNX Sun Devils (@PHNX_SunDevils) October 25, 2024
We’ve finally got an answer.
📺: https://t.co/cU10i4z2TK pic.twitter.com/HV3Ie10ZMc
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Skattebo's beard has aided in the issue. But the habit has proven difficult to kick. He likened the practice to an obsessive-compulsive disorder ritual, revealing he now shakes his head to ensure his helmet is aligned perfectly.
"Now I feel like it's more of an OCD thing, the fact that my helmet has to fit perfect," Skattebo said.
The choreography follows Skattebo in practices and games alike, taking shape whenever the Giants tailback sports headgear and pads.
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"The referees come up to me and ask me, 'Are you okay?'" Skattebo said.
Skattebo's production at the collegiate and professional level suggests his process is working, even if it does look a bit awkward to the untrained eye.
Does Cam Skattebo have a concussion?
Skattebo has employed the head-shaking routine for years. In 2022, Skattebo -- then a star at Sacramento State -- took to social media to address rumors that it was indicative of a head injury.
"If I had a head injury I would address it," he wrote.
Twitter just thought I should address the head shakes during the game lol . During the game I sweat and it causes my face to be wet. While my sweat drys on my face it causes my pads on the inside of my helmet to stick to my cheeks. If I had a head injury I would address it.
— cameron skattebo (@camskattebo5) October 25, 2022
Also if I had any type of injury trust me the game isn’t more important then my health. Thank you guys for worrying about me and my person heath but I promise I’m okay lol !!!!!
— cameron skattebo (@camskattebo5) October 25, 2022
Skattebo's bruising style of play lends itself to nicks and bruises. But it hasn't resulted in any major injuries thus far.
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