the cam degree is the angle, or degree, at what the cam lobe is cut at. The valves are controlled by the cams. as the cam spins, one of the lobes pushes on the rocker arm which causes the valve to open. The more of an angle, or degree, on the cam lobe, the long the valve will stay open. Say that the valve stays open longer on the intake stroke, then it allows more time for more air to be sucked into the combustion chamber. more air + more fuel = more power.