Iowa Hawkeyes Projected in College Football Playoff Field at Midseason
With the college football season at its halfway point and the first College Football Playoff rankings just weeks away, Iowa fans have reason for optimism. The Hawkeyes are projected to secure a spot in the 12-team playoff field, according to a new midseason prediction that also includes several other first-time programs.
The projection places Iowa at No. 10 with a 10-2 record, leaning on a strong resume built on road wins over Michigan and Washington, plus a season-opening victory over Ohio State. The Hawkeyes still face a challenging stretch, but the forecast suggests they will avoid a second loss.
Iowa's Path to the Playoff
Iowa's remaining schedule includes games at Minnesota, Wisconsin, Northwestern, Purdue, Illinois, and Nebraska. While a slip is possible, the prediction sees only one more loss, keeping the Hawkeyes comfortably inside the field.
The key to Iowa's success has been a defense that has already proven itself against top competition. With the toughest games behind them, the Hawkeyes control their own destiny.
Four First-Time Programs Projected to Make History
The prediction is notable for including four programs that have never made the College Football Playoff: Iowa, UCLA, Wake Forest, and Utah. This reflects a season of parity and upheaval in college football, where traditional powers have stumbled and new contenders have emerged.
Full Projected Top 12
Here is the complete projected final CFP ranking:
- Notre Dame Fighting Irish (12-0)
- Georgia Bulldogs (12-1)
- Ohio State Buckeyes (12-1)
- Miami Hurricanes (12-1)
- Utah Utes (12-1)
- Alabama Crimson Tide (11-2)
- Texas Longhorns (10-2)
- Indiana Hoosiers (11-2)
- UCLA Bruins (11-1)
- Iowa Hawkeyes (10-2)
- Wake Forest Demon Deacons (11-2)
- James Madison Dukes (13-0)
What This Means for Iowa Fans
For Iowa, the projection validates the team's strong start and positions the Hawkeyes as a legitimate contender. The remaining schedule offers opportunities to solidify their resume, and a 10-2 finish would almost certainly secure a playoff berth.
While the season is far from over, Iowa's path is clear: win the games they should win, and they will be playing for a national championship in December.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams make the College Football Playoff?
The College Football Playoff expanded to 12 teams this season, with the top four conference champions receiving first-round byes and the remaining eight teams competing in first-round games on campus.
When will the first CFP rankings be released?
The first College Football Playoff rankings are expected to be released in early November, providing the first official look at the committee's thinking.
What is Iowa's best chance to make the playoff?
Iowa's best chance is to finish with a 10-2 record or better, with wins over ranked opponents like Ohio State, Michigan, and Washington already on their resume. A Big Ten Championship appearance would further strengthen their case.