Hawkeyes prepare for season opener without head coach Kirk Ferentz

IOWA CITY, Iowa (KCAU) – Traditionally, Iowa begins the year at home. But for the first time in his 26 seasons, Kirk Ferentz will not be on the sideline. This will be the first Iowa game not coached by either Ferentz since 1998.

But, it’s a reality Iowa faces and one they say won’t distract them from going 1-0.

“Obviously, it’s going to be different. But, you know, coach is still going to be with us in spirit. He’s doing a great job and put together a great plan for us this week, so it’s business as usual.” Iowa defensive lineman Deontae Craig said.

“He mentioned players win games, not coaches. I feel like we’ve taken that into account and we’ve got to go out there and we’ve got to get it done at the end of the day.” Iowa wide receiver Jacob Gill added.

The Hawkeyes begin the season ranked 25th in the nation with a Week 1 matchup at Kinnick against Illinois State on Saturday at 11 a.m.

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