The Iowa Hawkeyes‘ offensive struggles over the last several seasons and, in particular, over the past two seasons have been well documented.
On many occasions, Iowa’s offensive ineptitude left it reduced to a national punchline. Offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz’s designated performance objectives in his amended contract from last spring became a running gag for many covering and watching college football.
The unusual contract amendment stated that Ferentz would be terminated if Iowa didn’t average 25 points per game offensively and win at least seven games. Midway through this 2023 college football season, it became clear that Iowa wouldn’t meet the 25 points per game threshold.
Eventually, the ongoing mockery of the program and the lack of results forced interim Iowa athletic director Beth Goetz’s hand. She announced midseason in late October that Brian Ferentz wouldn’t be retained beyond this season’s bowl game.
At that time, Brian Ferentz released a statement on his upcoming dismissal and plans for the remainder of this 2023 season.
“For the vast majority of my adult life I have had the privilege to represent the University of Iowa as a football player and coach. I have always considered and will always consider it an honor.
“In that time, my singular goal has been to contribute to the football team’s success. As long as I am employed by the University of Iowa, my stated goal will not change. My priority will continue to be the wellbeing of our students and the success of our team,” Ferentz wrote in his statement to ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
Now, as Iowa gears up for its Cheez-It Citrus Bowl date versus Tennessee on New Year’s Day at noon CT, Brian Ferentz met with the media for the first time since August.
Here’s everything Brian Ferentz had to say.