Iowa's Koen Entringer Could Be Key Piece as Louisville Eyes College Football Playoff Run

Iowa football fans may want to keep an eye on a familiar name this college football season. Former Hawkeye defensive back Koen Entringer transferred to Louisville, and he could play a significant role in the Cardinals' push for the College Football Playoff in 2026.

Louisville is one of five dark horse teams that could crash the 12-team playoff field this season, according to a preseason breakdown from Yahoo Sports Canada. The Cardinals, under head coach Jeff Brohm, have won 28 games in three seasons. Year four could be the breakthrough that lands them in the national championship conversation.

What makes Louisville a playoff contender?

The Cardinals' hopes largely hinge on transfer quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, a dual-threat playmaker who learned under Chip Kelly and Ryan Day at Ohio State. He joins a Louisville offense loaded with proven talent, including running backs Isaac Brown and Keyjuan Brown, who combined for more than 1,500 rushing yards in 2025.

Brohm has also been aggressive in the transfer portal, bringing in playmakers like Vanderbilt wide receiver Tre Richardson and Tulsa tight end Brody Foley. The defense returns standout end Clev Lubin, who posted 8.5 sacks and forced three fumbles last season.

How does Iowa's Koen Entringer fit in?

Entringer, who transferred from Iowa, is among the newcomers expected to shore up the Cardinals' safety position. Louisville leaned on the portal to address depth in the secondary, and Entringer's familiarity with Big Ten competition could make him a valuable addition.

The Cardinals open the season against Ole Miss at a neutral site, followed by an ACC showdown with SMU. After that, the schedule softens considerably with no Notre Dame, Miami, or Clemson on the docket.

Other dark horse teams to watch

Louisville isn't the only team positioned to surprise. The Yahoo Sports analysis highlights four other programs with realistic paths to the playoff:

• Arizona Wildcats (Big 12): Quarterback Noah Fifita enters the season with 73 career touchdown passes and a strong defense that forced 31 turnovers in 2025.
• UCLA Bruins (Big Ten): New coach Bob Chesney brought a wave of James Madison talent, including running back Wayne Knight and defensive end Sahir West, plus former five-star quarterback Nico Iamaleava.
• Auburn Tigers (SEC): Coach Alex Golesh and quarterback Byrum Brown arrive from South Florida after a nine-win season that included the program's first CFP ranking appearance.
• New Mexico Lobos (Group of Six): The Lobos won their final six regular-season games in 2025 and return 68% of their offensive production.

What does this mean for Iowa fans?

While the Hawkeyes aren't featured in this year's dark horse list, Entringer's journey from Iowa City to Louisville gives local fans a rooting interest in the Cardinals' playoff chase. It also highlights the growing trend of Iowa players finding new opportunities through the transfer portal.

Louisville's season opener against Ole Miss will be an early test of whether this team can live up to the hype. If Kienholz delivers and the defense holds up, the Cardinals could be one of the most dangerous teams in the country by November.

Frequently asked questions about the 2026 College Football Playoff

How many teams make the College Football Playoff in 2026?

The playoff features 12 teams. The winners of the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12, and ACC receive automatic bids, along with the highest-ranked team from the Group of Six conferences.

Can a team with two losses still make the playoff?

Yes. The 12-team format allows room for teams with two losses, especially if they win their conference championship or finish with a strong resume.

Who is favored to win the national championship this season?

Traditional powers like Ohio State, Georgia, and Oregon are expected to be in the mix, but the expanded playoff creates opportunities for dark horse teams like Louisville and Arizona to make deep runs.

Photo: Yahoo Sports Canada