Iowa officially announces plan to part ways with Brian Ferentz
On Monday, Iowa fans learned the program will be parting ways with offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz at the end of the season. Interim athletic director Beth Goetz provided additional information on the decision.
“Anyone who loves Iowa football recognizes both the success and challenges that have brought attention to our program this season,” Goetz wrote in a press release. “Our struggles on offense coupled with the offensive coordinator’s contract make this a unique situation.
“After conversations with head coach Kirk Ferentz, coach Brian Ferentz and President Wilson, I informed Brian that our intention is for him to be with us through the bowl game, but this is his last season with the program. Making this known today is in the best interest of the program and its loyal fans; it provides clarity during this pivotal time in the schedule. It is not my practice to be involved in assistant coaching decisions and certainly not to make public such a change during a season.”
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Goetz’ announcement is no surprise to Iowa fans. In 2022, Iowa only averaged 17.7 points and 156.7 yards passing per game. Even worse, Iowa finished 130th out of 131 FBS teams in total offense at 256.1 yards per game. Consequently, Iowa revised Ferentz’s contract ahead of the 2023 season.
The program docked his salary from $900,000 to $850,000. Further, Iowa added a clause which stated Iowa must score 325 total points in the regular-season games for Ferentz to retain his job in 2024. For reference, 85 programs reached this mark in 2022.
Eight games into the season, Ferentz isn’t remotely on track to reach this target. Iowa has averaged just 19.5 points per game, ranking No. 116 in the country. Goetz believes this decision is best for the program and its student-athletes.
“Our priority is to put all our student-athletes in the best position to have both short-term and long-term success, on and off the field. Our football team has a group of outstanding young men and talented athletes, who at 6-2, have a lot to play for. As a former athlete, I know every opportunity to put on the jersey is a cherished one.
“As Hawkeyes, let’s continue to support all our coaches, staff and student-athletes in their pursuit of a Big Ten Championship and bowl game victory.”
Boasting a 6-2 overall record and 3-2 mark in conference play, Iowa sits atop the Big Ten West rankings. Despite its sluggish offense, the team is fiercely in the hunt for a conference title. The Hawkeyes will continue that hunt when they take Northwestern at 3:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.