Hawkeye Jon Lazar: Iowa Time Machine January 19, 1957

Iowa Time Machine ⏰: On January 19, 1957, Iowa Hawkeye great Jon Lazar was born. The South Tama standout initially committed to Iowa State before flipping his commitment and putting together a memorable career with the Hawkeyes.

Lazar followed in the footsteps of fellow South Tama County star Mark Fetter, who had already made his mark at Iowa and proved that small-town kids could compete in the Big Ten. Lazar rushed for 3,701 yards and 46 touchdowns across his final three high school seasons while facing the large schools of the Central Iowa Conference. His senior year in 1974 earned him first-team all-state honors and Scholastic All-American recognition. Iowa State secured his verbal commitment first, but Iowa coach Bob Commings refused to concede defeat. Lazar listened and ultimately signed with Iowa, a decision that sent shockwaves through both programs and the recruiting landscape.

A devastating leg injury nearly ended his career as a freshman, but he battled back through months of rehabilitation and returned stronger. He became a three-year starter at fullback from 1976 through 1978, leading the Hawkeyes in rushing each season and finishing his career with 1,225 yards despite playing during one of the program's most challenging eras. When Iowa State wore "Beat Iowa" jerseys before the 1977 rivalry game, Lazar took it personally and played with fury.

Lazar served as team captain his senior year and earned All-Big Ten honorable mention before attempting to make NFL rosters with the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles. The Iowa High School Athletic Association inducted him into its Hall of Fame in 2022, recognizing both his high school dominance and his college achievements. #Iowa #OTD #History #Football #Hawkeyes