Iowa’s First Test Against Northern Illinois | Iowa Hawkeyes Football News

Iowa football returns after an eight-month break, facing Northern Illinois in their 2026 opener — a game packed with uncertainty, new talent, and high stakes. With key players gone to the NFL, transfers reshaping the roster, and quarterback status still up in the air, the Hawkeyes lean on their run game and defensive newcomers like Jayden Montgomery and Zach Lutmer. Northern Illinois, fresh under a new coach and in the Mountain West, brings MACtion energy and upset potential. Predictions favor Iowa’s gritty, physical win — no blowout, but a classic Hawkeye triumph as they navigate early-season turbulence. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/d1d3579b40f3ec9e