College football season is just around the corner, and for Iowa Hawkeyes fans, the unofficial start begins this week at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago. The annual event brings together coaches, players, and media to preview the 2026 season, and Iowa arrives with plenty of questions and storylines that will shape their campaign.
Head coach Kirk Ferentz, now the elder statesman of college football, will lead a delegation of three veteran players to represent the Hawkeyes. Here is everything you need to know about the event and the biggest topics facing Iowa football.
How to Watch Big Ten Media Days
Big Ten Media Days run from Tuesday, July 28 through Thursday, July 30. The Big Ten Network will provide extensive coverage from Chicago, starting each day at 11:30 a.m. ET. Hosts Jake Butt and Mike Hall will anchor the network's B1G Live coverage, breaking down interviews and storylines as they unfold.
Iowa fans do not have to wait long. The Hawkeyes are part of the first day of action on Tuesday, July 28, alongside Illinois, Penn State, Rutgers, USC, and Wisconsin.
Who Is Representing Iowa at Media Days?
Ferentz is bringing a trio of experienced players to Chicago: defensive back Zach Lutmer, tight end Addison Ostrenga, and linebacker Jayden Montgomery. All three are savvy veterans who can speak to the team's culture and expectations.
Ostrenga, in particular, will be a key voice. As a tight end, he is deeply involved in both the run and pass game, and his insight into the quarterback competition could be revealing.
Iowa's Quarterback Competition Takes Center Stage
The biggest storyline for Iowa is the battle under center. Will Hank Brown or Jeremy Hecklinski be the starter in Week 1? It is a question Ferentz knows is coming, and he will likely have a prepared answer.
Expect the Hawkeyes to stay tight-lipped about the competition, but Ostrenga could offer a unique perspective. As someone who works closely with both quarterbacks in practice, his comments may give fans a glimpse into how the race is progressing.
Iowa has traditionally relied on a strong running game and stingy defense, but the quarterback position remains the biggest variable for 2026. Whoever wins the job will need to manage games effectively and avoid turnovers.
Big Ten vs. SEC Scheduling Debate
The ongoing feud between the Big Ten and SEC over scheduling is sure to come up. The SEC has been vocal about its schedule strength, using it as ammunition against the Big Ten. Ferentz, never one to back down from a fight, may have a witty retort ready.
Iowa fans will be watching closely. The Hawkeyes have built their program on physical, grind-it-out football, and Ferentz has earned the right to push back against conference rivals. Expect him to defend the Big Ten's brand of football.
College Football Playoff Expansion: What Does It Mean for Iowa?
Playoff expansion is another hot topic. The College Football Playoff is growing, and that creates both opportunity and debate. On one hand, expansion waters down the field and diminishes other bowl games. On the other hand, it opens the door for more teams to play meaningful postseason games.
Iowa is one of those programs that consistently flirts with playoff contention. Ferentz's thoughts on expansion will be intriguing. Does he want a wider field that brings Iowa closer to the national title picture? Or does he prefer the exclusivity of the current system?
For Hawkeye fans, the answer matters. Iowa has been on the cusp before, and playoff expansion could be the difference between a New Year's Six bowl and a real shot at a national championship.
What This Means for Iowa Fans
Big Ten Media Days are more than just a media event. They set the tone for the season ahead. For Iowa, the focus will be on quarterback stability, defending the Big Ten brand, and navigating the changing landscape of college football.
Fans can tune into the Big Ten Network starting Tuesday to catch all the action. With Ferentz leading the way and a veteran group of players representing the program, expect Iowa to make its voice heard in Chicago.