Iowa football faces special teams questions ahead of 2026 season

The Iowa Hawkeyes, ranked No. 22 in the preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, are preparing for the 2026 season with uncertainties surrounding their special teams. Following the departures of key players, including kicker Drew Stevens and returner Kaden Wetjen, Iowa looks to maintain its strong special teams play. Head coach Kirk Ferentz highlighted that the team will need patience as they adapt to new specialists. Chris Polizzi has been named the new special teams coordinator after previously serving as a defensive analyst. The Hawkeyes also added transfer kicker Eli Ozick and punter Tanner Philpott to their roster.

• 10:45 AMYahoo Sports — USA TODAY shares 1 lingering Iowa football question