Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz Isn’t Going To Fire His Son Brian In The Next Exit

Having covered all 24 seasons of Kirk Ferentz’s tenure as head coach at Iowa, so very little of what he has done over the years surprises me. This is due to the fact that he rarely surprises people with his acts.

In 1999, he came to Iowa with a strategy. In general, he has stayed true to it.

So, if his statement on Wednesday that he anticipated all of his aides returning in ’23 caught you off guard, you either haven’t been around very long or aren’t paying attention. He might have pushed a few workers out the door in the past, but he never fired them in front of everyone. And mostly he’s stuck by their sides.

It’s absolutely disgusting that Brian Ferentz is returning as Iowa’s OC. 19 tds in 13 games is putrid. The worst offense in the FBS. The nepotism in Iowa City is absurd. Kirk has to go. I know the grass isn’t always greener, but being okay with last isn’t a sound,logical decision

— Michael (@SevOneDeu) February 2, 2023

Iowa Coach Kirk Feretnz Isn’t Going To Fire His Son Brian In The Next Exit

With the assistant who received the most criticism last Fall, that was undoubtedly going to be the case. The last chapter of his legacy would be written with his son at his side, maybe taking over as head coach in the future, when he appointed his eldest kid, Brian Ferentz, to be his offensive coordinator before the 2017 season.

That’s a significant bet, one that might make the environment unpleasant. That is happening right now.

Brian is responsible for an infraction that has gained notoriety as a nationwide joke about futility. The last two seasons, the squad rescued face by securing 18 victories thanks to a strong defence and outstanding special teams.

The nepotism is so strong we’re now rating Brian Ferentz on his dad’s record and not his actual terrible statistics pic.twitter.com/2DZ1sLSDFZ

— Nolan Lamb (@nolanla88) January 26, 2023

But the offence was too terrible to be overlooked. There were queries raised. Wednesday came, and Ferentz knew he would have to handle it in public at some time.

You make decisions about your course of action when you are the most powerful man on campus. Kirk will not expel his kid. Given that he hasn’t let him go after the previous two seasons, it’s likely that he won’t ever do so.

On Wednesday, both Kirk and Brian’s immediate boss (wink-wink), athletic director Gary Barta, were promoting Hope to the crowd. The offensive struggles of the previous season were brought on by the offensive line’s inexperience, injuries, and the loss of a crucial receiver (Charlie Jones).

Today, @ScottDochterman asked Kirk Ferentz, essentially, the same question twice "What makes Brian Ferentz a good offensive coordinator?"

With the help of my editing software, I see he spent a total of 3 min + 12 sec speaking, and I'm not sure he truly answered either question.

— Jack Lido (@JackLido) February 2, 2023

Ferentz has history on his side in that regard. He oversees a developing programme with ups and downs depending on how everything comes together. There is little room for error.

We all know better deep down.

Come September, most of you will be sitting in those Kinnick Stadium seats once more. It’s football in Iowa. You won’t be skipping that fall Saturday party. The university is aware of this.

Dochterman: The prospect of Brian Ferentz’s return as OC has Iowa football fans angry, cynical and on the verge of apathy. That’s a dangerous spot for both the program and bottom line.@TheAthleticCFB https://t.co/HP3CjzOTC2

— Scott Dochterman (@ScottDochterman) February 2, 2023

We’re not there yet; it may take another couple of years of seeing pointless offence to drive you away. Kirk Ferentz now has more time. He is placing a bet on his son and himself. It will be amazing to watch it unfold.