Iowa Hawkeyes
· 2026-07-14
The Iowa Hawkeyes will open the 2026 season in 54 days against Northern Illinois on September 5 in Iowa City. Gary Dolphin, the longtime voice of the Hawkeyes, shared his early thoughts on the team’s quarterback battle and receiving corps during an exclusive interview.
The quarterback competition between Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown is the summer’s top storyline. Kirk Ferentz admitted during spring pressers that the race could drag deep into August. Dolphin told HawkeyeRoundtable he sees Hecklinski as the frontrunner right now, calling the duo a “real nice combination.” Brown, a 6-foot-5 pocket passer, complements Hecklinski, who thrives outside the pocket and can extend plays with his legs. The staff won’t name the Week 1 starter until the depth chart drops the Monday before the opener.
Tim Lester’s offense has improved in his first two seasons, and 2026 might feature the most talent on paper. Reece Vander Zee, KJ Parker, UTRGV transfer Tony Diaz, and tight ends DJ Vonnahme and Zach Ortwerth headline a deep group. Vander Zee and Vonnahme, the 2025 ReliaQuest Bowl MVP, led the late surge last year. Diaz brings yards-after-catch flair, while redshirt freshman tight end Cole Meyer adds intrigue despite no game action yet.
Dolphin called Vander Zee a “monster” at 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, praising his speed and physicality. He and Vonnahme are the X-factors in unlocking a lethal passing attack if they stay healthy. “We have other guys that are going to play, but those two are the centerpieces,” Dolphin said.
Iowa fans will get their first real look at the offense in fall camp. The staff is watching film, talking to players, and prepping for a season that kicks off in less than two months. Dolphin, celebrating 30 years as the Voice of the Hawkeyes, is already locked in. The Hawkeyes host Northern Illinois on September 5 to start the 2026 slate.