Northwestern Allows Kickoff Return Score Against Iowa
Northwestern fell 24-10 to Iowa after giving up a 96-yard kickoff return touchdown, adding to its special teams struggles.
Updated on Nov. 11, 2026 in Football
Northwestern gave up a 96-yard kickoff return touchdown on the play after scoring its first points in the third quarter against Iowa, which went on to win 24-10. The loss came amid a season in which opponents have recorded 639 kickoff return yards against Northwestern.
Why it matters
Kickoff coverage has been a recurring weakness for Northwestern, and the 96-yard return shifted momentum in a game the team was trying to make competitive. Northwestern's special teams problems are now a central issue as the team looks to stabilize its Big Ten season.
Northwestern has allowed 639 kickoff return yards this season, more than any other Big Ten team, which has allowed no more than 500, and its 33% touchback rate is the lowest in the conference. Whether the team will change its kickoff personnel or scheme has not been announced.
The players
Northwestern University
A private research university in Evanston, Illinois, and a member of the Big Ten Conference, whose football program competes in the conference.
University of Iowa
A public research university in Iowa City, Iowa, and a member of the Big Ten Conference, whose football team defeated Northwestern.
The details
Northwestern scored its first points of the game in the third quarter, trailing 14-3, but Iowa answered on the next kickoff with a 96-yard return touchdown. Several Northwestern players were knocked to the ground early in the return, and tackling leverage was identified as a problem. Special teams coordinator Paul Creighton and assistant Joe Seymour are evaluating kickoff personnel, positioning and scheme, and the team is exploring involving more defensive starters in coverage.
Timeline
Oct. 31: Northwestern allowed a 54-yard kickoff return in a 34-26 loss to Oregon.
Nov. 8: Northwestern lost 24-10 to Iowa after the 96-yard kickoff return touchdown.
Season Trajectory
Northwestern's 639 kickoff return yards allowed sit far above every other Big Ten team, which none has exceeded 500, placing the program at the extreme end of the conference's special teams data this season. The gap shows a weakness that could affect Northwestern's standing in the Big Ten race.
Northwestern's 33% touchback rate and its 639 kickoff return yards allowed mean its opponents are starting drives in strong field position. Fantasy managers rostering Northwestern defenders should note that kickoff coverage is currently producing big returns for opponents.
The takeaway
Special teams play can swing close games quickly, and Northwestern's kickoff coverage has become a defining weakness. Fixing it will be a priority if the team hopes to compete in its remaining Big Ten contests.
Further reading
For more on the team's season, see the latest Football coverage.
