Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says the battle for starting quarterback may extend into the start of the season. Wake Forest transfer Jeremy Hecklinski and Auburn transfer Hank Brown are competing to take over for Mark Gronowski as the Hawkeye signal caller. Ferentz was at the podium at Big Ten Media Days in Chicago.
The Hawkeyes have more holes to fill than any other Big Ten team. Only three starters return on defense and on special teams the Hawkeyes will have a new kicker and punter.
Ferentz says he would favor a 24-team College Football Playoff. It will remain a 12-team format for the upcoming season.
Defensive back Zach Lutmer is one of the three starters back on defense. Lutmer led the Hawkeyes with three interceptions last year and also finished fourth in tackles. He is garnering preseason All Big Ten recognition.
The Hawkeyes look to take the next step this fall. They have posted 13 straight winning seasons and are coming off a 9-4 campaign.
A challenging schedule includes a trip to Seattle to play Washington.
The Hawkeyes open the season at home on September fifth against Northern Illinois.
