After a very busy spring, Iowa Football finally wraps up practices with an open practice this weekend.
The open spring practice is an annual tradition that gives Iowa fans a first look at the squad before the summer and the start of next season.
It is free to enter, with gates opening at 9:45 a.m., and the practice set to start at 10:45 a.m.
Before Iowa kicks off the 2026 season against Northern Illinois on Saturday, September 5, here are three things to watch during the open practice.
The starting quarterback battle
Nothing will most likely be decided in the starting quarterback battle after the scrimmage and practice on Saturday, but it has been and will be a storyline until the start of next season.
The staff has been impressed by both Hank Brown and Jeremy Hecklinski, and Kirk Ferentz will stay tight-lipped about the final decision until they are 100 percent sure they know who it will be.
Each quarterback has taken equal starting reps throughout the spring, and it will be interesting to see who takes advantage during the first real look at the squad on Saturday.
The new-look special teams unit
After losing long-time special teams coordinator and recruiting ace LeVar Woods to Michigan State, the Iowa special teams unit is going to look a lot different this season.
Chris Polizzi was promoted internally as the new coordinator and impressed the fans and media with his passion and dedication throughout the spring.
Not only is Polizzi brand new, but the program is without return specialist Kaden Wetjen as he attempts to play in the NFL.
According to Polizzi, Zach Lutmer is most likely the punt returner next season, but guys like Reece Vander Zee, KJ Parker, Brevin Doll, and Jaylen Watson will be in the mix to return kicks.
Kirk Ferentz has always placed a high importance on special teams, and it will be worth watching heading into next season.
The defensive line has talent, but multiple unknowns
Defensive linemen Bryce Hawthorne and Kenneth Merrieweather have the most experience in the Iowa system, leaving at least three starting spots up for grabs.
The unit was veteran-heavy last season, and losing Aaron Graves, Max Llewellyn, Ethan Hurkett, Jeremiah Pittman, and Brian Allen will be difficult to handle.
Iose Epenesa has had a good spring and is expected to see an increased role alongside Luke Gaffney, and the program also brought in three talented transfers in Kahmari Brown, Emmanuel Olagbaju, and Brice Stevenson, all of whom could make an immediate impact.
The open spring game will be our first look at Iowa's defensive line and should give us a glimpse into the thought process of Phil Parker and Kelvin Bell.
Open spring practice: Saturday, April 25, at 10:45 a.m.
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