Iowa’s football program is gearing up for the 2026 campaign after a solid 9‑4 finish in 2025 that culminated in a Reliaquest Bowl victory over Vanderbilt. Under longtime head coach Kirk Ferentz, the Hawkeyes will enter the new season unranked in the US LBM Coaches Poll but with a roster that blends experience and fresh talent.
Returning Talent
A core group of veterans will be back to anchor the offense. Running back Kamari Moulton and tight end D.J. Vonnahme have both announced their return, giving the team a boost of continuity as it prepares for a demanding Big Ten slate.
The home portion of the schedule features seven games at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, including matchups against Northern Illinois, Iowa State, Northern Iowa, Ohio State, Wisconsin, Purdue and Nebraska. Each of those contests will be played on the iconic field that has become a rallying point for the Hawkeye faithful.
Road games will take the team to hostile environments against Michigan, Washington, Minnesota, Northwestern and Illinois, providing a test of the team’s resilience early in the season.
Fans can secure tickets for every game, with prices starting at $26 for the November 21 contest against Illinois and climbing to $244 for the November 7 showdown with Northwestern. The most affordable home‑game option is a $38 ticket for the September 5 opener against Northern Illinois.
While the Hawkeyes are not listed among the preseason rankings, the coaching staff remains confident that the blend of returning starters and a challenging schedule will provide ample opportunities to climb the polls as the season progresses.