By: Josh Torres
(Photo/Patrick Murphy-The Mojo Network)
IOWA CITY, Iowa — The Iowa Hawkeyes continued their strong start to the 2026 season with a 55-0 victory over Northern Iowa on Saturday at Kinnick Stadium.
Iowa took control from the start and never allowed Northern Iowa to get comfortable. The Hawkeyes built a 42-0 lead by halftime, dominating on the ground finishing with 422 yards, with three different running backs reaching at least 100 yards.
Xavier Williams led Iowa's talented running back room with 151 yards and three touchdowns on just six carries. Braeden Jackson added 125 yards and a touchdown, while Nathan McNeil finished with 111 yards and two touchdowns.
The passing game was also strong throughout the game.. Quarterback Hank Brown completed all 12 of his attempts for 153 yards and two touchdowns. Brown connected with Jackson on a 24-yard touchdown pass and later found tight end Addison Ostrenga for a 14-yard score.
Iowa's defense was just as impressive, only allowing 155 total yards and nine first downs throughout the whole game. The Hawkeyes also recorded two interceptions while keeping the Panthers off the scoreboard for all four quarters.
The win moved Iowa to 3-0 on the season and gave the Hawkeyes their second shutout of the year. The 55-point victory was also Iowa's largest margin win since the team defeated Illinois 63-0 in 2018.
Iowa will now move on from nonconference play and prepare for its Big Ten schedule. The Hawkeyes will travel to Michigan next week for their conference opener, who are also undefeated.
Iowa looks to continue their dominant run game and use Hank Browns’ confidence to their advantage.