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Top 50 teams in 2018: No. 40, Iowa

Coach: Kirk Ferentz

2017 record: 8-5

Projected 2018 record: 9-3

Circle the date: Sept. 22 vs. Wisconsin

Bowl trip: Holiday

Why No. 40: It all starts with good-guy Ferentz, who struggled at the start of his head coaching career in Iowa City, but has been a rock ever since. In 19 years, he has 143 wins and was a brilliant choice to replace Hayden Fry. ... There isn't much turnover on the staff, another reason for the 15 bowl bids in less than two decades.