The 2026 college football season begins with a much‑anticipated matchup as the Iowa Hawkeyes host the Northern Illinois Huskies at Kinnick Stadium, a venue where the Hawkeyes have dominated the series historically.
Series History
Iowa holds a 9‑1 advantage in the all‑time series, the lone loss coming in 2013 when the Huskies posted a 12‑2 record and featured Jordan Lynch, who finished third in Heisman Trophy voting.
Coaching Changes
Northern Illinois entered the 2026 campaign after a disappointing 3‑9 season and a coaching turnover in February, when Thomas Hammock departed for the Seattle Seahawks and Rob Harley was named interim head coach.
The Huskies are expected to struggle in their inaugural Mountain West Conference season, with Athlon Sports projecting a 10th‑place finish and concerns about quarterback stability, youth, and a defense lacking any returning starters.
Quarterback Competition
Iowa’s quarterbacks Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski have been battling for the starting role throughout preseason, but coaches have indicated that Brown’s perceived caution and age advantage make him the likely starter.
Game Outlook
Predictions favor a decisive Hawkeyes victory, with a projected score of 37‑12, as Ferentz’s 24‑3 record in season openers suggests confidence in a strong performance despite the opponent’s rebuilding status and the sweltering, sticky conditions expected in Iowa City.
The game will serve as a barometer for Iowa’s nonconference schedule, which will also help determine the starting quarterback, while Northern Illinois hopes to use the experience as a springboard for future improvement.