Kirk Ferentz updates Iowa quarterback situation ahead of Citrus Bowl

Kirk Ferentz had Iowa as one of the top ranked teams in the country at one point in 2021. However, a less than stellar end to the season sent them down the rankings. Still, Iowa is looking to end their season on a high note in the Citrus Bowl.

To do so, the Hawkeyes will be forced to go through Kentucky. Both teams had blazing starts to the season followed by uneven finishes, but one program will end their season with a victory over the other.

One of the reasons the Hawkeyes were done in was because of their quarterback play. Whether it was Spencer Petras or Alex Padilla under center, Iowa simply wasn’t consistent enough on offense.

Prior to the Citrus Bowl, Ferentz updated the Iowa quarterback situation ahead of the Citrus Bowl.

“I guess you’ll know at one o’clock — probably before that, actually. Really don’t think it’s that big a deal,” stated Ferentz. “I know it is to everybody, been asked about it, but we have faith in both guys. Both guys have done a great job.

“Ultimately, it’s about how our team plays, quite frankly. That’s our goal — to play good team offense and hopefully be able to move the ball and score some points.”

Iowa may have won ten games, but they won ten games despite their quarterback play — not because of it. If they’re to beat Kentucky on Saturday, Iowa will need to get something positive out of their quarterbacks.

More on Iowa, Spencer Petras and Alex Padilla

As Kirk Ferentz looks to make his decision, neither quarterback has stood out for Iowa. On the season, Spencer Petras and Alex Padilla haven’t done enough to separate themselves from each-other.

First, Petras received more playing time by a wide margin over Padilla. However, he didn’t do enough to keep his backup from nipping at his heels. On the season, he’s passed for a lowly 1,666 yards and nine touchdowns.

On the other hand, Padilla passed for 636 yards and two touchdowns on the season. He’s gotten chances in Petras’ stead, but hasn’t convinced Ferentz that he should be the team’s starting quarterback.

In their most recent game against Michigan in the Big Ten Championship, neither quarterback played well. Combined, both quarterbacks passed for 175 yards and an interception in a 42-3 drubbing.

Time will tell whether Kirk Ferentz goes with Spencer Petras or Alex Padilla on Saturday. Either way, the Iowa Hawkeyes will need better play from their quarterback if they’re to defeat the Kentucky Wildcats.