About Our Ads Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Iowa and Wisconsin meet for the 100th time on the gridiron on Saturday. And the Heartland Trophy won't be the only thing on the line.
For the visiting Badgers , they're looking to prove that last week's win over USC wasn't a fluke. Luke Fickell's team is off to a strong 5-2 start and playing some good football on both sides of the ball. This is the final big test for Wisconsin. After this game, the last four opponents on their schedule have a combined record of 12-16 this season. A win here would vault Wisconsin into College Football Playoff talks.
For the Hawkeyes , this game is all about bouncing back. They played a sloppy game last weekend and picked up a deserved loss to Minnesota in the process. There are questions at quarterback, Kamari Moulton is done for the year, and the fanbase is uneasy about how the offense is going to perform on a week-to-week basis. This game is an opportunity to right the ship while picking up a win over a good team in the process.
With so much on the line for both teams, who do the experts have winning? Here are the experts' predictions for Iowa vs. Wisconsin.
Bleacher Report : Iowa 20, Wisconsin 13. David Kenyon of Bleacher Report picked the Hawkeyes in a close one. He explained his reasoning:
"First to 20? Expect two stout defenses and a barrage of punts in this rivalry tilt," Kenyon said. "As USC just learned, Wisconsin is fully capable of winning on the strength of takeaways and favorable field position. Iowa also committed four turnovers in its recent loss at Minnesota. At home, though, Iowa holds a slight edge."
College Football News : Iowa 16, Wisconsin 13. Pete Fiutak of College Football News is rolling with Iowa in a low-scoring affair. He talked more about the game and his pick:
"Iowa has been held to under 100 rushing yards four times," Fiutak said. "The losses to Ohio State and Minnesota, the 16-13 win over Iowa State, and the minor-miracle 20-19 win at Michigan. The Iowa running game has been feast-or-famine – totally dominating in the wins over everyone but Michigan. It's not going to dominate against this Badger defense, but …
Wisconsin isn't completing passes. This will be about field position, mistakes, and one big play in a tough dogfight. Like the loss at UCLA, the Badgers will play well, and it won't be enough on the road."
Sports Illustrated : Iain MacMillan of Sports Illustrated picked Iowa to protect Kinnick Stadium and win this game. He explained why:
Wisconsin has to be able to run the ball to be an effective offense," MacMillan said. "Unfortunately, Iowa has one of the best run defenses in the nation, ranking second in opponent EPA per rush and seventh in opponent rush success rate. Not being able to run the ball means the Hawkeyes are going to have an advantage in this game. The Wisconsin defense is good, but they're a full step below the Hawkeyes' defense."
Athlon Sports : All three experts at Athlon Sports picked the Hawkeyes to win this game.
Fox Sports : All three experts at Fox Sports picked the visiting Badgers to win this game.
Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) exits the locker room before pregame warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz talks on the sideline during pregame warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) passes against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) passes against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz reacts to a successful extra point kick against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker Jayden Montgomery (36) sacks Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman Will Hubert (57) tackles Washington Huskies wide receiver Dezmen Roebuck (2) following a reception by Roebuck during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Jacob Wallace (11) and linebacker Jayden Montgomery (36) tackle Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Elijah Brown (7) looks to pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Xavier Styles (18) defends a pass intended for Washington Huskies wide receiver Rashid Williams (3) during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Braeden Jackson (22) runs for yards after the catch against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back L.J. Phillips Jr. (21) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz stands away from the sideline following a touchdown by the Washington Huskies during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) stands over center before a fourth quarter play against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) celebrates following a victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes players do a cheer in front of their fans following a victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 1 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) exits the locker room before pregame warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 1 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) exits the locker room before pregame warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 2 / 20 Iowa's Kirk Ferentz named to Bear Bryant Coach of the Year watch list Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz talks on the sideline during pregame warmups against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 3 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) passes against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 4 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) passes against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 5 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 6 / 20 Iowa football climbs in US LBM Coaches Poll rankings in idle week Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz reacts to a successful extra point kick against the Washington Huskies during the first quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 7 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker Jayden Montgomery (36) sacks Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 8 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman Will Hubert (57) tackles Washington Huskies wide receiver Dezmen Roebuck (2) following a reception by Roebuck during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 9 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Jacob Wallace (11) and linebacker Jayden Montgomery (36) tackle Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (1) during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 10 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 11 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies quarterback Elijah Brown (7) looks to pass against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 12 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Xavier Styles (18) defends a pass intended for Washington Huskies wide receiver Rashid Williams (3) during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 13 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Braeden Jackson (22) runs for yards after the catch against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 14 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back L.J. Phillips Jr. (21) rushes against the Washington Huskies during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 15 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 16 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz stands away from the sideline following a touchdown by the Washington Huskies during the third quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 17 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) stands over center before a fourth quarter play against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 18 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes running back Kamari Moulton (28) celebrates after rushing for a touchdown against the Washington Huskies during the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 19 / 20 Best photos from Iowa football's dominant 41-24 win vs. Washington Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski (10) celebrates following a victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) 20 / 20 Iowa football rises again in latest AP Top 25 rankings Oct 9, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes players do a cheer in front of their fans following a victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images (Joe Nicholson, IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect) Contact/Follow us @HawkeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions. Follow Zach on X: @zach_hiney
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