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John Downs came to Carroll from Helena Cathedral High, where he had been a standout grid quarterback and basketball guard with the Greenies. His freshman year he served as back-up quarterback for the Hilltoppers, but was switched to the line the next season. As a 183-pound soph guard, John became known for his technique, quickness, smarts and grit. He was lauded as the defensive anchor, and turned in “an especially fine game” against Eastern Montana.

In 1962’s 20-13 win over Western, his backfield rushes sparked two defensive touchdowns. In the second period, John forced a wild lateral, which Carroll teammate Dan Durkin grabbed and went 55 yards for the score. Later in the period the same two combined on an identical play, this time for 50-yards. “Durkin got the glory, but Downs put the pressure that forced the mistakes,” the IR reported. In the 30-12 win over Rocky, John recovered a blocked punt in the end zone for a Saints TD. His efforts earned him an honorable mention All-MCC selection. He played hurt his senior year, but stood out on numerous plays, nonetheless. Later on John Downs served as an assistant grid coach on the Hilltop for several years.