Matt Blair — Iowa State (Big 12) (1971-1973)
While the Iowa State Cyclones do not have a long history of outstanding football players, linebacker Matt Blair probably had the best career of any player from the program. He was an All-American at Iowa State, leading to him getting drafted in 1974 by the Minnesota Vikings, where he spent his entire NFL career. He played in the Super Bowl twice and was a six-time Pro Bowler and two-time selection for All-Pro honors. The Vikings have recognized Blair as one of their all-time great players and he is now a part of the franchise’s ring of honor.
Matt Blair — Iowa State (Big 12) (1971-1973)
Gale Sayers — Kansas (Big 12) (1962-1964)
You might think Gale “Kansas Comet” Sayers was the clear choice for the greatest Kansas Jayhawks football player ever but John Riggins makes a strong case as well. Sayers ultimately gets the nod since his career at Kansas was better – he was a unanimous All-American running back twice and was named all-conference in the three seasons that he played varsity football. He was just as brilliant in the NFL in spite of injuries that drastically shortened his career. He spent his entire career with the Chicago Bears, made four Pro Bowls and was named to five first-team All-Pro. Sayers still holds Bears rushing records almost 50 years after the end of his career.
Gale Sayers — Kansas (Big 12) (1962-1964)
