Iowa Football Poised for First CFP Berth in Expanded 12-Team Format, Analyst Says
Iowa City, IA – The expanded College Football Playoff has opened the door for new contenders, and according to FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt, the Iowa Hawkeyes are among the top candidates to make their debut in the 12-team field in 2026. With 20 different programs already making the postseason since the format expanded in 2024, the Hawkeyes are poised to join that list, driven by consistent coaching and a strategic approach to roster building.
Klatt highlighted Iowa's remarkable consistency under head coach Kirk Ferentz, noting that the program has achieved eight-plus wins in each of the last 10 full seasons. However, he emphasized that the key to breaking into the playoff lies in replacing key players, particularly on the offensive line after losing the Joe Moore Award-winning unit.
“Iowa's had eight-plus wins in the last full 10 seasons. Kirk Ferentz is as consistent as anyone in the sport,” Klatt said on his show. “For them, though, it's about replacing the right players. The offensive linemen from the Joe Moore Award-winning offensive line that was obviously a very good group. Can you replace those players up front? They've hit the [transfer] portal for experienced players from the G-5 from the FCS, and I think a lot of those guys will be smart, experienced guys that'll pay off.”
Klatt outlined a clear path for Iowa: secure at least one win against a trio of tough opponents—Michigan, Ohio State, and Washington. “They'll need one win out of these three—Michigan, Ohio State, Washington,” he said.
The Hawkeyes' schedule also includes a critical home game against Washington on October 3, followed by matchups with Penn State and Indiana at Kinnick Stadium. The season concludes with a rivalry game at Oregon. Klatt noted that Washington has been dominant at home, going 25-2 at Husky Stadium over the last four seasons, but Iowa's defensive strength and experienced transfers could make the difference.
“I like what Jedd Fisch builds. He builds good, quality programs. They got their quarterback Demond Williams back. He's got four returning starters on the offensive line. I think the big key for Demond Williams is going to be playing better in big games,” Klatt said of Washington. “Oct. 3, they go to USC … They welcome Iowa in. They welcome Penn State into Iowa Stadium. They have Indiana at home. And then at Oregon in their rivalry game to end the season… They are 25-2 at Husky Stadium [over the last four seasons]. This is one of the great teams in all of Husky Stadium.”
For Iowa fans, the message is clear: the path to the playoff is challenging but achievable. With a proven coach, a strong transfer portal strategy, and a schedule that offers opportunities for statement wins, the Hawkeyes are well-positioned to make history in 2026.
Other teams Klatt identified as likely first-time 12-team CFP participants include Houston, Arizona, Utah, Louisville, Michigan, USC, BYU, and LSU, with the latter being his top pick. “If they don't make the playoff, I'm going to be very surprised,” Klatt said of LSU, noting the program's talent and coaching under Lane Kiffin.
As the College Football Playoff continues to expand access, Iowa's consistent performance and strategic roster moves make them a compelling story for Hawkeye Nation. The 2026 season promises to be a pivotal one for the program.