Iowa Hawkeyes prepare for season opener against Northern Illinois

The #22 ranked Iowa Hawkeyes are set to open their 2026 season at Kinnick Stadium against Northern Illinois. The matchup, designated as a ‘Gold Out’ event, features a team led by head coach Kirk Ferentz, the nation’s longest-tenured head coach, and defensive coordinator Phil Parker.

Iowa enters the season with significant continuity, returning eight starters and maintaining a strong defensive record, having allowed fewer than 20 points per game in nine consecutive seasons. The offense, led by offensive coordinator Tim Lester, averaged 29.3 points last season.

Recent depth charts indicate a shift in the program’s approach to the transfer portal. While historically reluctant to use the portal, Iowa has integrated several transfers into its two-deep depth chart, including wide receiver Evan James from Furman, Tony Diaz from UT-Rio Grande Valley, and running back L. J. Phillips Jr. from South Dakota. A competition for the starting quarterback position remains ongoing heading into the opener.