Cyclone Chris Washington: Iowa Time Machine November 19, 1983

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On November 19, 1983, the curtain closed on one of the most remarkable defensive careers in Iowa State football history. Linebacker Chris Washington took the field for the final time as a Cyclone and cemented his name in the record books as the school’s all-time leading tackler. 

Before Washington’s rise, Iowa State football had seen its share of ups and downs during the 1970s and early 1980s. Competing in the Big Eight Conference meant facing powerhouse programs like Nebraska and Oklahoma on a regular basis. The Cyclones often entered games as underdogs, relying on resilience more than reputation. Washington emerged as a quiet but dominant presence whose defensive instincts gave Iowa State a fighting chance against some of the best offenses in the country.

That November day in 1983, Washington finished his senior season the way he had played his entire career: relentless in pursuit and unflinching in the face of competition. With every tackle, he added to a legacy that would stand for years to come. His total of 457 career tackles became the benchmark for toughness and consistency in Iowa State history. Teammates and coaches remembered him not only for his production but also for his leadership, work ethic, and ability to inspire confidence in those around him.

Washington’s record stood as a reminder that greatness can thrive even in seasons of struggle, and that dedication often defines a team’s spirit more than its win-loss record. Decades later, Chris Washington’s name still echoes through Cyclone history, a symbol of what it means to give everything, down after down, for the love of the game. #Iowa #History #CollegeFootball #IowaState #Football