Iowa defeated Iowa State 16-13 in a low-scoring defensive battle during Week 2 of the 2026 season. The Hawkeyes controlled much of the game through strong defensive performances, with Iowa's defense recording the game's largest play with 2.86 EPA in the fourth quarter.

Iowa struck first offensively in the second quarter, with quarterback Hank Brown leading a scoring drive capped by a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Brown finished with 191 passing yards and connected with receiver Tony Diaz on a 56-yard completion deep in Iowa State territory earlier in the quarter. Iowa State answered with their own second-quarter touchdown, a 4-yard pass to V. Benetti that tied the game at 10-10 heading into halftime.

Iowa added a field goal in the third quarter before pulling away with a late touchdown in the fourth quarter to secure the 16-13 victory. The defensive units dominated throughout, with Iowa State's defense forcing critical stops to keep the game competitive. Iowa State covered the 14-point spread despite the loss, while the game finished well under the 42.5 over-under at 29 combined points.