On3 projects historic Iowa–LSU rivalry revival in 2026 Citrus Bowl matchup

On3 has released early bowl projections for the 2026 college football season, forecasting a matchup between the Iowa Hawkeyes and the LSU Tigers in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida. This specific pairing is framed by the outlet as a revival of a historic rivalry, noting that the teams have previously met in the 2004 Citrus Bowl and the 2013 Outback Bowl.

The projection notes that under head coach Kirk Ferentz, Iowa has participated in the Citrus or Outback Bowl annually since 2013, excluding the 2020 season which was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This consistent presence in the bowl game has established a pattern for the Hawkeyes, though the 2026 opponent remains a subject of algorithmic prediction rather than official confirmation.

Iowa and LSU have met twice in bowl games prior to this projection. The most recent meeting occurred in the 2013 Outback Bowl in Tampa, where LSU defeated Iowa 21–14. The other encounter, which is noted as a memorable moment in Iowa program history, took place in Orlando in 2004.

That 2004 game was decided by a 56-yard touchdown pass from Drew Tate to Warren Holloway as time expired, resulting in a 30–25 victory for Iowa. This result stands as one of the Hawkeyes' greatest moments in program history, contrasting with the 2013 loss to the Tigers.

The 2026 bowl projections are described as "way-too-early" for the season, meaning the actual outcome is highly speculative and subject to significant change. The specific opponent and venue are not confirmed facts but rather editorial predictions from On3, highlighting the fluid nature of college football scheduling before the official calendar is released.

No official confirmation exists for this matchup at this stage, and the details should be treated as speculative until verified by relevant sporting authorities. The projection serves as an intriguing narrative device, suggesting a return to a classic rivalry in the Sunshine State.