Record Breakers: College Football Legends

The King Of Interceptions


Listen Later

Episode Description – “The King of Interceptions”

In this episode of Record Breakers: College Football Legends, we rewind the clock to 1968 and shine a spotlight on one of the most remarkable defensive performances in college football history: Al Worley’s record-setting season with the Washington Huskies.

Worley wasn’t a hyped recruit out of high school. He wasn’t the biggest or fastest player on the field. But what he did have was instinct — the uncanny ability to read quarterbacks, anticipate routes, and put himself in the right place at the right time. That sixth sense transformed a quiet cornerback from San Diego into the NCAA’s ultimate ballhawk.

Across a tough 1968 season, the Huskies struggled, finishing just 3–5–2. But Worley’s brilliance gave fans something unforgettable. Week after week, he kept pulling the ball out of the air:

  • 2 interceptions in the opener against Rice.

  • 3 more in the fourth quarter alone at Wisconsin.

  • A four-pick explosion against Idaho.

  • A pick-six versus Cal that tied the national record.
    And finally, with just 24 seconds left against UCLA, Worley made history. His 14th interception of the year sealed a 6–0 Husky victory and etched his name forever into the record books.

Even in defeat the following week in the Apple Cup, Worley walked off the field as the Consensus All-American who still holds the NCAA single-season interception record more than five decades later.

This episode dives deep into:

  • Worley’s upbringing and high school days in San Diego.

  • His fit with Washington coach Jim Owens’ disciplined, hard-nosed system.

  • A game-by-game journey through the 1968 season.

  • The tension and electricity of the UCLA game where history was made.

  • The Apple Cup epilogue, where Worley’s legend was already secure.

  • His short time with the Denver Broncos, his life after football, and how fans and teammates remember him today.

It’s more than a story about interceptions. It’s about preparation, discipline, and seizing the moment — proof that even in a losing season, greatness can rise.

🎧 Join us as we relive the season of “The King of Interceptions” — Al Worley, the Husky legend whose record still stands.

...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Record Breakers: College Football LegendsBy Nathan West