Iowa Hawkeyes Ranked 7th in Big Ten Preseason Power Rankings for 2026
The Iowa Hawkeyes are projected to finish 7th in the Big Ten this fall, according to Athlon Sports' preseason power rankings released Wednesday. With just six returning starters, head coach Kirk Ferentz is expected to reload in Iowa City behind a strong offensive line and a deep running back room.
The Hawkeyes' offensive line, led by Trevor Lauck and Kade Pieper, is among the best in the conference. Running backs Kamari Moulton and L.J. Phillips will look to exploit those lanes. The quarterback battle between Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski remains unresolved as fall practice begins.
Iowa's Path to Contention
Iowa's schedule includes tough matchups against Ohio State, Michigan, and Oregon, but the Hawkeyes have a history of exceeding expectations under Ferentz. The defense, a perennial strength, will need to replace several key contributors from last season.
“Iowa always finds a way to compete,” said one Big Ten analyst. “Ferentz knows how to develop talent, even with a young roster.”
Big Ten's Top Contenders
The Big Ten is loaded with national title contenders this season. Ohio State holds the No. 1 spot, followed closely by Indiana and Oregon. The Buckeyes, led by quarterback Julian Sayin and receiver Jeremiah Smith, are the favorites. Indiana returns a strong offensive line and added TCU transfer Josh Hoover at quarterback. Oregon boasts a dynamic offense with Dante Moore under center.
Michigan, under new coach Kyle Whittingham, and USC, with quarterback Jayden Maiava, round out the top five. Washington, Penn State, and Iowa form the next tier.
Other Big Ten Teams to Watch
Illinois (No. 9) is coming off the best two-year stretch in program history but is reloading with only seven returning starters. Nebraska (No. 10) added transfer quarterback Anthony Colandrea and hopes for defensive improvement. Minnesota (No. 11) should challenge for eight wins behind running back Darius Taylor.
Wisconsin (No. 13) has a favorable schedule and a deep transfer class, but coach Luke Fickell is on the hot seat after a 9-15 record over the last two seasons.
Bottom of the Conference
Purdue (No. 18) has not won a Big Ten game since November 2023 and enters with just six returning starters. Rutgers (No. 16) has a quarterback battle but returns two of the conference's top offensive players in running back Antwan Raymond and receiver KJ Duff.
What This Means for Iowa Fans
Iowa fans can expect a competitive season, but playoff hopes may hinge on the quarterback decision and defensive development. The Hawkeyes open the season at home against an FCS opponent on August 29.
For more details, see the full rankings at Athlon Sports.