As Iowa gears up for the ReliaQuest Bowl against Vanderbilt, the weeks leading up to kickoff aren’t just about game prep-they’re about shaping the future. With the Hawkeyes using this window to evaluate talent and build depth, it’s a golden opportunity for younger players to make their mark. Bowl practices are often where the next wave of contributors begins to emerge, and this year is no different.
Head coach Kirk Ferentz and his staff are using this time to get a closer look at who might climb the depth chart heading into next season. Whether it’s special teams, rotational roles, or even potential starting jobs, the reps these players are getting now could be the difference between riding the bench and stepping into the spotlight in 2026.
Let’s break down some of the key position battles unfolding during bowl prep, starting with a look at the defensive front.
Defensive Line: Who’s Next in Line?
With veterans like Brian Allen and Kenneth Merrieweather expected back next season, Iowa’s defensive line will have some familiar faces anchoring the unit. But that doesn’t mean things are set in stone.
Injuries happen. Rotations matter.
And the Hawkeyes are looking for the next man up-someone who can step into a backup role now and potentially into a starting job down the line.
That opens the door for a number of young linemen to make their case. Bowl practices are a proving ground, and this is the moment where raw potential starts to turn into real opportunity. Coaches will be watching closely to see who brings consistent effort, who’s understanding the scheme, and who’s showing the kind of physicality that Iowa demands up front.
Expect plenty of reps to go around, especially in live drills and situational work. The staff wants to see who can hold the edge, who can get off blocks, and who can disrupt the backfield. These aren’t just practice reps-they’re auditions.
Quarterback: A Glimpse Into the Future
The quarterback room is always under the microscope, and this bowl prep period is no exception. With the current starter in place, the focus shifts to the next wave of signal-callers.
Who’s reading the defense well? Who’s making the right throws under pressure?
And maybe most importantly-who’s showing leadership?
This is a chance for the younger QBs to take command of the offense in practice settings and show they’re more than just developmental pieces. Iowa’s offense has long relied on smart, efficient quarterback play, and the staff is looking for someone who can carry that torch moving forward.
Tight End: Reloading a Key Position
Tight end has been a cornerstone of Iowa’s offense for years, and that tradition isn’t going anywhere. But with some turnover at the position, the Hawkeyes are in the market for the next reliable target over the middle.
Bowl practices will give young tight ends a chance to show off their hands, blocking technique, and route-running skills. It’s not just about catching passes-it’s about doing the dirty work in the trenches, too. Iowa’s tight ends need to be complete players, and this is where the coaching staff starts to figure out who fits that mold.
Running Back: Depth, Competition, and Opportunity
Running back is another spot where depth can make or break a season. Bowl prep is the time to find out who’s ready to handle a bigger load. Whether it’s vision, burst, or ball security, every rep matters.
The Hawkeyes will be watching to see who runs with authority, who picks up blitzes in pass protection, and who’s ready to be a three-down back. With carries up for grabs in practice, this is a critical evaluation period for the future of the backfield.
Offensive Line: Building the Foundation
No position group benefits more from extra practice time than the offensive line. It’s about chemistry, footwork, and trust-and that takes reps. Lots of them.
Iowa’s staff will be looking closely at who’s communicating well, who’s staying low in their stance, and who’s winning at the point of attack. This is where young linemen can start to separate themselves and earn a spot in next year’s rotation.
Bottom line: While the ReliaQuest Bowl is the immediate focus, Iowa’s eyes are also on the horizon. These practices are about more than just preparing for Vanderbilt-they’re about shaping the roster for 2026 and beyond.
For the younger players getting their shot, this is the moment to prove they belong. And for the Hawkeyes, it’s a chance to reload, retool, and keep the program’s momentum rolling.