Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says the battle for the Hawkeyes’ starting quarterback could extend into the start of the season.
Wake Forest transfer Jeremy Hecklinski and Auburn transfer Hank Brown are competing to replace Mark Gronowski under center. Ferentz addressed the media during Big Ten Media Days in Chicago.
The Hawkeyes enter the fall with more holes to fill than any other Big Ten team. Only three starters return on defense, and Iowa will feature a new kicker and punter on special teams.
Ferentz said he would support expanding the College Football Playoff to 24 teams, though the CFP will remain at 12 teams for the upcoming season.
Defensive back Zach Lutmer is one of the three returning starters back on defense. The former Central Lyon/George-Little Rock standout led Iowa with three interceptions last season and finished fourth in tackles. He is receiving preseason All-Big Ten recognition.
Iowa is looking to build on a 13-year streak of winning seasons after finishing 9-4 last fall.
The Hawkeyes face a challenging schedule that includes a road trip to Washington.
Iowa opens the season at home on September 5th against Northern Illinois.
Audio courtesy of affiliate Radio Iowa / Story courtesy of KIWA Radio
