(Radio Iowa) — Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says he agrees with the Big Ten’s decision to play a conference only football schedule even though it cost the Hawkeyes two games against in-state foes. Iowa was scheduled to open the season at home against Northern Iowa and was also set to host the annual Cy-Hawk game against Iowa State.

It will be the first time since 1976 the Hawkeyes and Cyclones have not met.

Ferentz says he is more focused on just having a season.

Sophomore center and Solon native Tyler Linderbaum says it is disappointing to lose the in-state games.