Kirk Ferentz addresses perceived hesitance to make quarterback changes

Even after Iowa made big-time changes on offense this season, results have not been great. Saturday’s performance against Ohio State was certainly a disappointing one, only putting seven points up on the Buckeyes. The lone touchdown of the night came in garbage time as Kirk Ferentz already watched his team go down by 35 points.

This has led to questions about a potential quarterback change. Cade McNamara is currently running Iowa’s new-look offense but Northwestern transfer Brendan Sullivan is currently backing him up. Ferentz says the coaching staff is evaluating things on a weekly basis and at every position, not just quarterback.

“It’s pretty much the same,” Ferentz said. “Pretty much every position we have out there on the field, we assess it daily and then weekly. Then, you learn more as the season goes on and the game goes on. Ultimately, it’s about putting players in the field in situations where you think it gives you your best chance to win at that given point.”

Talking specifically about the Ohio State game, Ferentz admitted the McNamara interception was a mental mistake from the veteran. McNamara was attempting to work a one-on-one scenario on the sideline but underthrew his already falling-down receiver, turning into a big play the other way.

“That was just a bad mental play on his part,” Ferentz said. “That was the most disappointing play in my mind. He’d love to have it back too but sometimes, you don’t have that choice.”

But overall, the feedback on McNamara’s play was positive from the head coach. Ferentz also understands it’s a new system from a season ago and knows parts are still moving around. Certainly does not sound like somebody about to make a change.

“He’s done a lot of good things too and I would venture to say he played a pretty good half in the first half,” Ferentz said. “He was efficient… Keep in mind, we’ve got a new offense. So, there’s a lot going on.”