Iowa Hawkeyes athletics faces a new era as the Swarm Collective shuts down, raising major questions about the future of NIL funding and player retention in Iowa City. Will Iowa’s “flight funds” initiative and partnership with Learfield be enough to keep the Hawkeyes competitive in the ever-evolving college sports landscape?

Trent Condon breaks down what this seismic NIL shift means for Iowa fans, then pivots to basketball buzz: with Tate Sage’s rise and freshman Ethan Harris turning heads in open practice, Ben McCollum’s squad looks deeper—and more dynamic—than ever. Plus, hear the emotional story of Brett Harris, the star baseball recruit rejected by Ole Miss after a brave fight with brain cancer, and how Rick Heller is making room for him at Iowa. Can the Hawkeyes’ culture and unity set them apart in the NIL age?

Follow Trent Condon on X: https://twitter.com/trentcondon

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Photo: Joseph Cress/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Reuters Connect

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Iowa Hawkeyes football faces a potential crossroads as uncertainty looms for the 2026 season. Could issues at quarterback and defensive tackle derail Kirk Ferentz’s enduring success, shifting the Hawkeyes’ “floor” from reliable bowl contention to missing postseason play? Host Trent Condon lays out worst-case scenarios, spotlighting key concerns with Hank Brown, Jeremy Hecklinski, and an unproven defensive front, along with the impact of losing special teams coordinator LeVar Woods.

Tom Kakert of Hawkeye Report joins to weigh the pressure Ferentz could face after a disappointing season, speculating on succession plans involving Seth Wallace and the stability of Iowa’s football culture. The conversation shifts to Hawkeyes basketball, as the hype builds around Ben McCollum’s program and whether expectations now demand Sweet 16 or Final Four runs. Women’s basketball and a beefed-up Iowa baseball schedule round out this comprehensive, can’t-miss look at Hawkeye athletics’ uncertain but hopeful future.

Follow Trent Condon on X: https://twitter.com/trentcondon

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Photo: Jeffrey Becker - IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

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Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

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Iowa Hawkeyes gear up for an explosive season—can their offense finally deliver big-play fireworks under Tim Lester? Trent Condon breaks down Iowa football’s evolving strategy, spotlighting running backs Kamari Moulton, Nathan McNeil, and LJ Phillips, as well as wide receivers Tony Diaz and Evan James, all poised to ignite the field with chunk plays. Will improved quarterback play and an athletic tight end group led by DJ Vonnahme push the Hawkeyes past last season’s struggles for big gains?

On the hardwood, Iowa men's basketball faces a new identity after losing Bennett Stirtz and Tavion Banks. Trent Condon explores who could become the team’s leading scorer, eyeing Tate Sage, Cooper Koch, and Cale Combs as key contributors in a balanced offense. Plus, Iowa women’s hoops enters the race for four-star point guard Jhaliana Guy, setting the stage for another strong recruiting battle.

Follow Trent Condon on X: https://twitter.com/trentcondon

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST:

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SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/0GTyz5ygevcGXdTF6QSoEo

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LockedOnHawkeyes

Photo: Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press Citizen/IMAGN Images

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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