The Big Ten Conference is gearing up for its annual Media Days, a three‑day gathering that traditionally signals the unofficial start of the college football season. This year's event will run from July 28 through July 30, with the first day taking place in Chicago before moving to Madison, Wisconsin.
Iowa's Spotlight on Day One
The Hawkeyes will be among the first teams to take the podium on Tuesday, July 28. Iowa will be represented by head coach Kirk Ferentz alongside senior quarterback candidates Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, as well as players Zach Lutmer, Addison Ostrenga and Jayden Montgomery.
Ferentz is expected to weigh in on the broader Big Ten versus SEC scheduling debate, a topic that has gained traction as conferences negotiate future matchups. The conversation also touches on the potential expansion of the College Football Playoff, a development that could affect Iowa's chances of securing a spot.
The quarterback competition between Brown and Hecklinski is being highlighted as a central storyline. Both signalers have shown flashes of brilliance during spring practices, and Ferentz's comments will likely shed light on who might eventually inherit the starting role.
Media Coverage and Audience
All sessions will be streamed live on the Big Ten Network, with coverage kicking off at 11:30 a.m. Eastern on July 28. The network's lineup includes former Hawkeye Jake Butt and defensive standout Mike Hall as hosts of B1G Live, providing real‑time analysis and interviews throughout the event.
Fans across the country will be able to follow the proceedings online and via traditional broadcast, underscoring the conference's effort to engage both longtime supporters and newer audiences as the 2026 season approaches.