Iowa heads west to Los Angeles for its second consecutive ranked matchup, picking up where things left off when the Hawkeyes last faced USC in the 2019 Holiday Bowl. Many see this contest as the first step toward a potentially budding Big Ten rivalry.
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What to watch for as Iowa and USC battle in potentially budding Big Ten rivalry
Photo by The Quad City Times
Key Takeaways:
- Iowa is on the road in Los Angeles for a high-stakes showdown
- Their last meeting was the 2019 Holiday Bowl
- The matchup is cast as part of a “potentially budding Big Ten rivalry”
- Iowa is playing its second consecutive ranked opponent
- Originally published by The Quad City Times on November 13, 2025
Origins of the Matchup
Iowa’s trip to Los Angeles marks the Hawkeyes’ return to the national stage against the Trojans. Their most recent meeting took place in the 2019 Holiday Bowl, a game that provided fireworks and left both fan bases anticipating the next face-off.
A Potential Big Ten Rivalry
Much of the conversation around this matchup centers on a possible rivalry developing between the two teams. Though the Trojans and Hawkeyes do not have extensive shared history on the field, observers see this contest as an early spark for future showdowns under the Big Ten banner.
Ranked Clash Under the Spotlight
This game also holds weight because it is Iowa’s second consecutive ranked matchup—a testament to the Hawkeyes’ high-profile season. Playing in front of USC’s home crowd elevates the stakes, with both teams showcasing their rosters in a contest that could help define each program’s trajectory.
Looking Ahead
While it remains to be seen if this meeting will solidify a lasting rivalry, there is no doubt that fans on both sides have circled this game on their calendars. If the Hawkeyes and Trojans deliver another memorable performance, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter in college football, one fueled by growing competition in the Big Ten ranks.
