It looks as if the schedule makers didn’t do the Iowa Hawkeyes any favors when it comes to the early Big 10 conference season.  After opening Big Ten play by splitting a doubleheader against 11th ranked Indiana the Hawkeyes open a three game on Friday night by visiting an Illinois team that is 16-5 overall and 3-0 in the league race.

Iowa coach Rick Heller says the Illini have the look of a contender in the conference race.

Iowa is 14-8 after a Wednesday night win over Bradley.