The Iowa football program has always prided itself on a strong running game led by a tough offensive line and gritty backs. Even though football has evolved into more of a passing sport, Kirk Ferentz hasn't forgotten the fundamentals of what he's built his program on.
That was evident in the Hawkeyes' 2026 season opener on Saturday.
Iowa established the run game early and often in its 40-0 win over Northern Illinois. The Hawkeyes finished the game with 38 carries for 289 yards, averaging 7.6 yards per carry. They also had two rushing touchdowns, which both came in the first quarter courtesy of fourth-year running back Kamari Moulton.
Moulton opened 2026 with a 50-yard score behind pristine blocking from the offensive line. A few minutes later, he added a 37-yard touchdown run to his ledger, once again following some fantastic blocks. By the time the first quarter came to an end, Moulton had already rushed for over 130 yards.
Kamari Moulton has 6 carries for 132 yards and 2 TD’s today. It’s still the first quarter. pic.twitter.com/qJsJGwszdC
#program
That was evident in the Hawkeyes' 2026 season opener on Saturday.
Iowa established the run game early and often in its 40-0 win over Northern Illinois. The Hawkeyes finished the game with 38 carries for 289 yards, averaging 7.6 yards per carry. They also had two rushing touchdowns, which both came in the first quarter courtesy of fourth-year running back Kamari Moulton.
Moulton opened 2026 with a 50-yard score behind pristine blocking from the offensive line. A few minutes later, he added a 37-yard touchdown run to his ledger, once again following some fantastic blocks. By the time the first quarter came to an end, Moulton had already rushed for over 130 yards.
Kamari Moulton has 6 carries for 132 yards and 2 TD’s today. It’s still the first quarter. pic.twitter.com/qJsJGwszdC
#program
4 days ago