A Life in Football
Former Iowa State coach Jim Walden, a pivotal figure in college football, died on July 2 at the age of 88.
Walden’s football journey began in Wyoming, where as a quarterback he led the Cowboys to two conference titles and a 1958 Sun Bowl appearance, earning Skyline Conference Player of the Year in 1959.
He later coached Washington State, posting a 44‑52‑4 record and capturing Pac‑10 Coach of the Year honors twice, highlighted by a 1981 bowl victory that ended a 51‑year drought.
In 1987 he took over at Iowa State, a program crippled by NCAA sanctions that limited scholarships. Over eight seasons he compiled a 28‑57‑3 record, yet his tenure produced signature wins that still resonate.
The 1990 upset of No. 16 Oklahoma, 33‑31, marked the Cyclones’ first victory over the Sooners since 1961, and the 1992 triumph over No. 7 Nebraska, 19‑10, limited the Cornhuskers to just 246 yards.
Walden mentored five All‑Americans — Blaise Bryant, Mike Busch, Gene Williams, Doug Skartvedt and Troy Davis — and helped launch the NFL careers of Keith Sims and Marcus Robertson, both of whom earned All‑Pro honors.
His contributions were recognized with induction into the Washington State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009, while the University of Wyoming honored his playing legacy in 2011.
Beyond the field, Walden’s impact endures at Iowa State University, Washington State University and the University of Wyoming, institutions that continue to celebrate his role in shaping college football history.