Iowa special teams unit shows promise following season opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 11:03 AM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Iowa special teams unit shows promise following season opener
Summary

Iowa utilized multiple players in its special teams rotation during the season opener against Northern Illinois. Kicker Caden Buhr missed his first extra point attempt but successfully converted on two field goals and four PATs for the remainder of the game. Eli Ozick handled kickoff duties while Reece Vander Zee and Evan James shared punt return responsibilities. James scored on a 77-yard return during the second half of his debut. Punter Boston Everitt averaged 43.7 yards on three kicks in his first collegiate appearance. Iowa continues preparations for a matchup against Iowa State scheduled for September 12.

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Status Watch
  • Caden Buhr converted field goals from 45 and 34 yards against Northern Illinois.
  • Evan James recorded a 77-yard punt return touchdown in his Iowa debut.
  • Boston Everitt finished with an average of 43.7 yards on three punts.
  • Iowa faces Iowa State on September 12 at Kinnick Stadium.
  • Reece Vander Zee and Evan James shared punt return duties in the opener.
Latest Updates
  • 11:03 AMYahoo SportsIowa football's new-look special teams unit takes positive first step
What they're saying
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We have yet to see how Iowa’s special teams will react with the game on the line, but Northern Illinois was a positive step for that unit.

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