Iowa History Daily: On January 31, 1999, Iowa Hawkeye legend Tim Dwight took a kickoff return to the house for the Atlanta Falcons. A all-time great at Iowa City High and the University of Iowa, Dwight shined on the gridiron and the track during a decorated career.
Born in Iowa City, Dwight grew up in the shadow of Kinnick Stadium before starring in football and track at Iowa City High School. On his first carry as a freshman running back debuting in a playoff game, Dwight found daylight and scored. Dwight ultimately rushed for 4,230 yards and scored 82 touchdowns during his time with the Little Hawks. He also shined on the track where he captured eight individual state track events including the 200-meter dash four times and the long jump three times.
Seemingly destined for Hawkeye greatness, Dwight didn’t disappoint. He finished his college career with Big Ten Conference records for punt return yardage (1,102) and punts returned for touchdowns (5). Additionally, Dwight also graduated with the record for career receiving touchdowns (21) and receiving yards (2,271). Dwight also brought his incredible speed to the track for the Hawkeyes to become a Big Ten Champion in the 100-meter dash, while also serving as a member of the Big Ten champion 4x400-meter relay and 4x100-meter relay teams in 1999, and the Big Ten champion 4x100-meter relay team in 1998.
Drafted in the 4th round (114th overall) of the NFL Draft during 1998. During his first season he helped the Falcons to the Super Bowl. In Super Bowl XXXIII, he returned five kickoffs, including one for 94 yards and a touchdown. Dwight still stands second all-time in Super Bowl kick return yardage for a single game (210). A ten-year NFL veteran, Dwight played for the Falcons, San Diego Chargers, New England Patriots, New York Jets and Oakland Raiders during a long career. #IowaOTD #IowaHistoryDaily #IowaHistoryCalendar
