History of Iowa–Wisconsin football rivalry in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 22, 2026

The Iowa–Wisconsin football rivalry, known as the "Battle for the Heartland," is a significant college football tradition. Both Iowa Hawkeyes and Wisconsin Badgers have been long-time Big Ten Conference members since 1900, fostering a competitive environment. The rivalry is more than just a game; it represents regional pride and conference standings implications. Despite not having as much national attention as some other rivalries, it holds importance for fans and alumni of both universities. The annual game often has direct impact on the Big Ten West division title race.

1900: Iowa and Wisconsin join Big Ten Conference

In 1900, both Iowa and Wisconsin became members of the Big Ten Conference, marking a significant moment in their athletic history.

2004: Iowa wins inaugural Heartland Trophy

In 2004, Iowa defeated Wisconsin 30–7 and was presented with the inaugural Heartland Trophy, also claiming a share of the conference title. This marked the beginning of the Heartland Trophy tradition in the Iowa–Wisconsin rivalry.

2005: Iowa spoils Barry Alvarez's last home game

In 2005, Iowa defeated Wisconsin 20–10 at Camp Randall Stadium, spoiling the last home game for Wisconsin head coach Barry Alvarez.

2006: Wisconsin wins first Heartland Trophy

In 2006, Wisconsin defeated Iowa 24–21, claiming the Heartland Trophy for the first time in the series.

2007: Wisconsin evens Heartland Trophy series

In 2007, Wisconsin won a closely contested game against Iowa 17–13 at Camp Randall, evening the Heartland Trophy series.

2008: Iowa takes lead in Heartland Trophy series

In 2008, Iowa secured a lopsided 38–16 victory over Wisconsin, taking the lead in the Heartland Trophy series.

2009: Iowa wins at Madison

In 2009, Iowa defeated Wisconsin 20–10 in Madison, continuing their lead in the trophy series.

2010: Rivalry ostensibly ends after season

Due to Big Ten expansion in 2010, Wisconsin and Iowa were placed in separate divisions, which ostensibly ended their annual rivalry after the 2010 season.

2010: Wisconsin wins with late touchdown

In 2010, Wisconsin scored a late touchdown to secure a 31–30 victory over Iowa at Kinnick Stadium.

2014: Rivalry resumes

In 2014, the annual game between Wisconsin and Iowa resumed after a new round of Big Ten expansion placed both teams in the Big Ten West division.

2023: Rivalry is deemed 'protected' by the Big Ten

In 2023, the Big Ten declared the Iowa-Wisconsin rivalry as 'protected', along with 11 other rivalries, ensuring the annual game will continue despite conference expansion.