Iowa football RB LJ Phillips Jr. updates status for Minnesota game

The bye week seems to have come at the perfect time for Iowa's fourth-year running back L.J. Phillips Jr.

Phillips was banged up late in the Hawkeyes' 41-24 win at Washington. He was thrown to the ground after a play was over and limped off the field.

Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Phillips shared that he had a small re-aggravation of the ankle injury that cost him a few games earlier this season. He also gave an update on his status for Saturday's big matchup with Minnesota.

The South Dakota transfer revealed that he'll be good to go against the Gophers. Iowa will have its full complement of skill position players for this rivalry game.

L.J. Phillips said he tweaked his previously injured ankle vs. Washington, but the bye week was good for his health and he feels "great." Says he expects to play vs. Minnesota.

— Tyler Tachman (@Tyler_T15) October 20, 2026

Phillips hasn't been able to find a rhythm with the Hawkeyes yet. He initially injured his ankle in Week 1 and didn't return until the Ohio State game. Despite that, he's looked good when on the field. Phillips has carried the ball 18 times this season for 63 yards. He had 10 carries for 42 yards against the Huskies.

Phillips rushed for 1,920 yards and 19 touchdowns with South Dakota last season. The 5-foot-8 running back was a big pickup for Kirk Ferentz in the transfer portal.

When healthy, he can be an absolute game-changer for this Iowa offense. Coming off a bye week, the Hawkeyes are hoping they'll get the best out of Phillips in the back half of the season.