Iowa Hawkeyes Ranked 22nd in Preseason AP Top 25 Poll
The 2026 college football season is officially on the horizon, and the Iowa Hawkeyes have a clear path back to relevance. The AP Top 25 Preseason Poll was released Monday morning, placing Iowa at No. 22 as the Big Ten prepares for what looks like a dominant year.
Ohio State sits atop the rankings with 40 first-place votes, followed closely by Oregon. The Big Ten flexes serious muscle in the top 10, with Indiana checking in at No. 6 as the defending national champion. For Iowa fans, the No. 22 spot represents a starting point, not a ceiling.
What does Iowa's No. 22 ranking mean for the season?
Iowa enters the season unranked in the top 10 but with every opportunity to climb. The Hawkeyes are one of eight Big Ten teams in the preseason poll, a sign of the conference's depth. With a schedule that includes several ranked opponents, Iowa controls its own destiny.
The Hawkeyes have built their identity on tough defense and disciplined play. That formula has historically translated well when the team is underestimated early in the year. Head coach Kirk Ferentz has a track record of getting the most out of his roster, and this season appears no different.
Big Ten dominance in the 2026 preseason poll
The Big Ten leads all conferences with three teams in the top six. Ohio State and Oregon take the top two spots, while Indiana defends its title from the No. 6 position. USC, Michigan, Washington, and Penn State round out the conference's representation in the top 25.
This depth sets up a gauntlet of conference matchups that will test Iowa early. Every game against a ranked Big Ten opponent becomes a statement opportunity for the Hawkeyes.
SEC and other conferences in the mix
The SEC places nine teams in the poll, the most of any conference, but received zero first-place votes. Georgia leads the SEC at No. 3, followed by Texas, Texas A&M, Ole Miss, and Oklahoma in the top 10. LSU, Tennessee, and Missouri also made the cut.
The ACC has just three teams ranked, with Miami leading the way at No. 7. The Big 12 places four teams in the poll, including Texas Tech at No. 12 and BYU at No. 14.
Key matchups ahead for Iowa and the Big Ten
Week two features a massive showdown between Ohio State and Texas, while Oklahoma faces Michigan in another marquee matchup. Iowa's schedule includes several ranked opponents, meaning every week offers a chance to move up.
For Hawkeye fans, the message is simple: the preseason poll is just a starting line. Iowa has the talent and coaching to make noise in the Big Ten and beyond.
What are the biggest storylines for Iowa this season?
The biggest question is whether Iowa's offense can complement its defense. The Hawkeyes have consistently fielded one of the nation's best defenses, but offensive production has been inconsistent. If the offense finds its rhythm, this team could exceed expectations.
Another storyline is the quarterback competition. Iowa has options under center, and the coaching staff will need to settle on a starter early. The team's success will hinge on that decision.
How can Iowa climb the rankings?
Winning early is the simplest answer. Iowa needs to take care of business in non-conference play and then make a statement in Big Ten matchups. A strong showing against ranked opponents would put the Hawkeyes in the playoff conversation by midseason.
The schedule is tough, but that is exactly what the team signed up for. Iowa has a chance to prove it belongs among the nation's elite.
What should Iowa fans expect in 2026?
Expect a competitive team that fights every week. The Hawkeyes have a culture of toughness and resilience, and that will be on display all season. The No. 22 ranking is a fair starting point, but this team has the potential to finish much higher.
The road to the College Football Playoff runs through the Big Ten, and Iowa is positioned to be a factor. The season kicks off soon, and the Hawkeyes are ready to make their mark.