The beginning of every Iowa football season is full of promise, but 2021 has a special feel to it. For the first time since 2019, Kinnick Stadium will be packed to the brim with fans ready to watch the Hawkeyes swarm the newly christened Duke Slater Field. Add in a six-game winning streak from last season and a disappointing end to the 2020 campaign caused by two COVID-related no-contests and one can easily see why the fanbase is alight with anticipation.
However, Iowa will face a serious challenge right out of the gate. The #18 Hawkeyes play host to the #17 Indiana Hoosiers in the earliest conference game every played in Kinnick Stadium and one that could shape the fortunes of two programs hoping to contend for the conference crown.