History and Traditions of Iowa Hawkeye Football Program

The History of Iowa Hawkeye Football

The Iowa Hawkeyes football team represents the University of Iowa in college football. The Hawkeyes have played their home games at Kinnick Stadium since 1929 and are currently members of the Big Ten Conference West Division.

Football was first played at the University of Iowa in 1872, just six years after the school was founded. Iowa joined the Big Ten conference in 1899 and found early success, winning conference championships in 1900, 1921, 1922, 1956, 1958, 1960, 1981, 1985, 1990, 2002, 2004, 2009 and 2015.

The Hawkeyes have appeared in 31 bowl games, including the Rose Bowl four times. Iowa has also produced 10 consensus All-Americans and over 150 NFL draft picks, including notable players like Chuck Long, Alex Karras, Andre Tippett, Bob Jeter, Nile Kinnick and T.J. Hockenson.

Famous Iowa Hawkeye Coaches

Iowa has been led by many renowned coaches over the years. Hall of Fame coach Howard Jones led Iowa to three Big Ten titles and two Rose Bowl appearances in the 1920s before leaving for USC. Forest Evashevski took over in the 1950s and won two conference championships and a Rose Bowl. Hayden Fry is considered the father of modern Iowa football, leading the team from 1979 to 1998.

Current Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz is the longest tenured coach in college football. Since taking over in 1999, Ferentz has led the Hawkeyes to two Big Ten titles, five New Year's Day bowl games and over 170 wins.

Top Players in Iowa Football History

Many legendary players have suited up for the Iowa Hawkeyes over the years. Hall of Fame quarterback Nile Kinnick won the 1939 Heisman Trophy and Maxwell Award. Linebacker Larry Station is Iowa's all-time tackle leader. Running back Ladell Betts holds the career rushing record. Defensive end Matt Roth is the sack leader.

Chuck Long was a two-time All-American and finished second in Heisman voting in 1985. Tim Dwight was one of the most explosive receivers and return men in Iowa history. Robert Gallery won the 2003 Outland Trophy as the nation's top interior lineman. Shonn Greene rushed for over 1,800 yards and won the 2008 Doak Walker Award.

Memorable Iowa Games

Iowa has been a part of many iconic games over the decades. In 1921 Iowa upset Knute Rockne and Notre Dame 10-7, denying the Irish a national championship. In the 1959 Rose Bowl, Iowa battled all the way back from a 38-12 deficit but lost to Cal. The Hawkeyes stunned #2 Michigan in 1985 on a last-second field goal, known locally as the "Whack from the Hawk."

Recent classics include upsets over #3 Penn State in 2008 and #2 Michigan in 2016. The Hawkeyes also stunned undefeated Ohio State 55-24 in 2017. Iowa has played in-state rival Iowa State annually since 1977 in one of the most heated rivalries in the Midwest.

Iowa Hawkeyes Football Traditions

Iowa football is steeped in great traditions. One unique aspect is that the visiting team locker room at Kinnick Stadium is painted pink, a tradition started by Hayden Fry to put opponents in an emasculating environment.

The most hallowed tradition is the waving of the cornstalks. Before the first home game each year, the field is lined with cornstalks to symbolize Iowa's agricultural roots. Fans wave them as players take the field to create an iconic spectacle.

Perhaps the most emotional is the recognition of former Iowa star Nile Kinnick. His inspirational speech is played before every game and players touch his jersey as they exit the tunnel. Kinnick's #24 is the only retired number at Iowa.

Gameday at Kinnick Stadium

Gamedays in Iowa City are incredible atmospheres. Fans flock to the stadium hours early to begin tailgating. The campus and nearby Iowa River are flooded with a sea of black and gold. The Hawkeye Marching Band performs an electrifying pregame concert.

Once inside historic Kinnick Stadium, fans are on their feet constantly to cheer on the Hawkeyes. The deafening crowd makes it an extremely difficult place for opponents to play.

Rivalries

Iowa has major rivalries with Big Ten foes Wisconsin, Minnesota, Nebraska and Illinois. But no game elicits more passion than the annual Cy-Hawk showdown with in-state rival Iowa State.

Played since 1898, it is the oldest rivalry west of the Mississippi River. With the teams' campuses just a short drive apart, bragging rights are on the line every year. It is one of the highlights of the season for both fan bases.

The Future is Bright

After over 150 years of football, the Iowa Hawkeyes have cemented their place as one of the most consistent and respected programs in the country. With a top-tier coach in Kirk Ferentz and excellent fan support, the future remains bright.

The Hawkeyes will continue striving for Big Ten titles and bowl appearances year in and year out. One thing is certain - autumn Saturdays will always mean football in Iowa City.

FAQs

When did Iowa football begin?

The University of Iowa fielded its first football team in 1872, just six years after the school was founded. They joined the Big Ten conference in 1899.

How many national championships and Heisman winners has Iowa had?

Iowa has not won any national championships but did produce one Heisman winner, Nile Kinnick in 1939.

Who are some of the best players in Iowa history?

Some all-time Iowa greats include Nile Kinnick, Chuck Long, Tim Dwight, Shonn Greene, Larry Station, Matt Roth, and T.J. Hockenson.

What is Iowa's biggest football rivalry?

The Cy-Hawk rivalry game against in-state foe Iowa State is Iowa's most heated rivalry. It is contested annually and divides households across the state.

How many times has Iowa played in the Rose Bowl?

Iowa has played in the Rose Bowl Game four times, with appearances following the 1921, 1956, 1957, and 1990 seasons.