Kirk Ferentz provides update on Xavier Nwankpa, others after Week 1

Iowa safety Xavier Nwankpa was banged up and left the Hawkeyes’ win in the fourth quarter Saturday, but head coach Kirk Ferentz didn’t seem too concerned.

Ferentz mentioned Nwankpa and others had cramping issues due to the heat. That’s where he mentioned he wanted his players to take better care of themselves moving forward.

Overall, it didn’t quite factor into the 24-14 victory over Utah State.

“He was factored a little bit in that fourth quarter with a couple of guys,” Ferentz said of Nwankpa. “Some cramping. We lost one guy at halftime to the heat. Nothing long-term, but it’s where our guys have to be smart here the next 48 hours. I remember Bob Kratch having real heat issues on Monday two days after we played K-State, whatever year it would have been — ’88, ’87. 

“I should know that, but he felt the effects because he didn’t get back to where he should have and ended up going down in practice that Monday. You have to really take care of yourself. I think our guys understand that. Heat was a factor today.”

Nwanpka finished the game with just two tackles in the win.

As a member of the Class of 2022, Nwankpa was a four-star recruit out of Altoona (Iowa) Southeast Polk, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 1 overall prospect in the state, the No. 4 safety in the class and the No. 52 overall prospect in the class.

Running back Leshon Williams had similar issues to Nwankpa in the victory.

“He has heat issues, too, so we expect him to be fine,” Ferentz said.

Cornerback Jermari Harris did not play Saturday and Ferentz made it clear regarding his return.

“He is going to be out next week, and then we’re looking forward to having him return,” Ferentz said.

Iowa didn’t run away with the game in Week 1, but looked alive early on. New quarterback Cade McNamara had to bring a smile to Ferentz’s face with his performance.

The Hawkeyes were suddenly airborne as McNamara finished 17-of-30 passing for 191 yards and two touchdowns.

Kaleb Johnson led the way on the ground with 19 carries for 63 yards and a touchdown.

It remains to be seen if Ferentz’s crew can win consistently with this type of performance. Iowa led 17-3 at halftime but scored just seven points in the second half while Utah State attempted a comeback.

Ferentz and the Hawkeyes have a big one next as they head to Ames to take on rival Iowa State.