The Iowa Hawkeyes football program has announced the selection of Chris Polizzi to head their special teams unit, a crucial appointment following the departure of long-serving coordinator LeVar Woods. This decision ensures a seamless transition and maintains the team's commitment to strong special teams play, a hallmark of the Hawkeyes' success. Polizzi's established connections and prior experience within the Iowa coaching ecosystem position him well to lead this critical aspect of the game.
Polizzi's relationship with the Iowa program is deep-rooted, extending over a decade. He initially joined the Hawkeyes as a graduate assistant from 2012 to 2014, gaining valuable insights into the team's operations and coaching philosophy. More recently, he returned to Iowa in 2025 as a defensive analyst, further integrating himself into the staff's strategic approach. This history provides him with an intimate understanding of the team's culture and expectations, which will be instrumental in his new capacity.
Beyond his time at Iowa, Polizzi boasts a diverse and accomplished coaching career. His journey in football began as a player at Lake Forest College in 2003, where he played cornerback under Seth Wallace. He then transitioned to coaching, starting at Central Methodist University. His career progression included a stint as a secondary coach at UCLA before he moved to UT Martin. At UT Martin, Polizzi ascended to the role of defensive coordinator, contributing to championship-winning teams in the Ohio Valley Conference in both 2021 and 2022. Prior to his most recent return to Iowa, he served as a defensive coordinator and safeties coach at the University of Tulsa.
This appointment underscores Iowa's strategy of fostering talent and leveraging individuals with a proven track record and a deep understanding of the program's values. Polizzi's multifaceted experience across various defensive roles and his prior affiliation with the Hawkeyes make him an ideal candidate to uphold and enhance the team's reputation for excellence in special teams. His leadership is anticipated to be a key factor in the team's upcoming seasons.