Iowa Hawkeyes Set to Face Northern Illinois Huskies in Season Opener

The Iowa Hawkeyes, ranked No. 22, will play against the Northern Illinois Huskies on Saturday in their college football season opener, broadcasted on Big Ten Network.

Head coach Kirk Ferentz, entering his 28th season, aims to increase his record of 209 career wins, the highest in Big Ten history. The Huskies, starting their first year in the Mountain West Conference, are led by interim coach Rob Harley and are looking to improve after a challenging 3-9 season in 2025.

Ferentz has not yet decided on a starting quarterback, with Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski competing for the position. Both are expected to see action in the game. Iowa's offense will likely focus on the running game, featuring returning rusher Kamari Moulton and transfer L.J. Phillips Jr., who had a standout season at South Dakota. Northern Illinois struggled defensively last season, allowing an average of 183.3 rushing yards per game, which could pose challenges against Iowa's ground attack.