Iowa Hawkeyes

The Iowa Hawkeyes represent the University of Iowa, competing in the Big Ten Conference from Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, named for 1939 Heisman winner Nile Kinnick. The Hawkeyes embody physical, fundamental football with an emphasis on defense, special teams, and the running game. Kirk Ferentz has built one of the most consistent programs in college football, with Iowa often outperforming its recruiting rankings through development and scheme. The waving to the children's hospital at Kinnick Stadium is one of the sport's most touching traditions. Hawkeye fans pack Kinnick for every home game, creating an electric environment in the heart of the Midwest.

Iowa football began in 1889, and the program reached early prominence under Howard Jones and later Forest Evashevski, who led the Hawkeyes to Rose Bowl victories in the 1950s. Nile Kinnick's 1939 Heisman season and tragic death made him an enduring symbol of the program. Hayden Fry revived Iowa football in the 1980s, and Kirk Ferentz has extended that success into the 21st century. The Hawkeyes' rivalry with Iowa State—the Cy-Hawk Trophy—and with Nebraska and Minnesota define the annual schedule. Iowa's reputation for developing NFL offensive linemen and producing stout defenses has made it a model of sustained, fundamental excellence.