Iowa will not name a starting quarterback for the Citrus Bowl

Kentucky’s next opponent is trying to keep its cards close to the vest ahead of the season finale. Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz did not reveal who will start at quarterback for the Hawkeyes in the VRBO Citrus Bowl.

Former four-star recruit Spencer Petras has been Iowa’s primary passer this season, completing just 56.9% of his passes for nine touchdowns and six interceptions. Petras was replaced by Alex Padilla in the second half of the Big Ten Championship Game loss to Michigan. Padilla, seen as more of a running threat than the former, appeared in eight games, completed just under 50% of his attempts for a pair of touchdowns and interceptions.

The public uncertainty surrounding Iowa’s quarterback situation will not impact how defensive coordinator Brad White is preparing for the Hawkeyes’ offense.

“From a scheme standpoint, I don’t think it changes. I don’t think it’s as drastic of a change. If it’s a pure pocket passer versus ‘this guy’s a runner;’ They try to throw. I think their skillset is within the same ballpark,” said White.

“Padilla probably runs a little bit better. But I think decision making — Petras, he understands where to go with the football and has been been really successful in the offense. So from that standpoint, it’s it’s not a big difference for us. In that regard in terms of how we scheme, it’s not going to be a different game plan. But you do have to be mindful of of who’s in and what that particular quarterback’s strengths are.”

Even though Ferentz was reluctant to say who would receive the first snaps under center, he did state that the coaches have reached a conclusion.

“I think we have pretty much made our mind up on what we are going to do on Saturday,” said Ferentz. “The reality is feel comfortable with both guys and feel like both guys can give us a chance to win the football game. I think both guys have strengths and weaknesses, as we have seen throughout the season, and it’s my job as a play caller to try to play to those depending on which route we go.”

All indications are that Petras will be the starter vs. Kentucky. The Athletic’s Scott Dochterman reports that Petras received first team reps during Iowa’s bowl prep in Orlando.