Expectations are mixed on the outside as Iowa gets ready for a new football season. The Hawkeyes return 16 starters from a team that finished 10-4 and won the Big Ten west division but do not open the season ranked in the USA Today Coaches Poll. It is the first time since 2018 they have not appeared in the preseason poll.

That’s Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz who says their only concern is getting ready for the season.

Junior linebacker Jestin Jacobs says they don’t care about preseason polls.

Senior corner Riley Moss says they are not using it as motivation.

Expectations are high for a defense that returns nine starters. Sophomore defensive back Cooper DeJean.

Sophomore running back Gavin Williams says the Hawkeyes are not following the rankings.

Senior quarterback Spencer Petras leads an offense that is looking for major improvement.

A healthy receiving corps would be a plus. Keagan Johnson showed big play ability as a freshman but he has been limited by injury in preseason camp.

Iowa opens September third against South Dakota State