Brian Ferentz Done at Iowa after '23

Interim AD Beth Goetz Announces Decision to Move On from Offensive Coordinator

IOWA CITY, Iowa - University of Iowa interim athletics director Beth Goetz announced Monday that football assistant Brian Ferentz will not be back with the program next season. He served the last seven season as the offensive coordinator after coaching the offensive line for five years. 

Brian Ferentz is the oldest child of longtime Hawkeye coach Kirk Ferentz. He also has NFL coaching experience with the New England Patriots.  

"After conversations with head coach Kirk Ferentz, coach Brian Ferentz and (UI) president (Barabara) Wilson, I informed Brian that our intention is for him to be with us through the bowl game, but this is his last season with the program," Goetz said in a university press releases. "Making this known today is in the best interest of the program and its loyal fans; it provides clarity during this pivotal time in the schedule."

Iowa is 6-2 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten, which is good for a four-way tie for first place in the West Division. The team's defense and special teams have been among the best in the conference while the team is averaging 19.5 points and the offense is bad for a third year in a row. 

Before the season, former AD Gary Barta restructured Brian's contract. It stated the Hawkeyes needed to average 25.0 points per game and win seven contests for his current deal to roll over to next year. It did not say he would be fired. 

"Anyone who loves Iowa football recognizes both the success and challenges that have brought attention to our program this season," Goetz's statement read. "Our struggles on offense coupled with the offensive coordinator’s contract make this a unique situation."

Iowa is tied with Penn State for the third most Big Ten wins (15) since the start of the '21 season. Michigan and Ohio State have more. 

If the Hawkeyes win out, they will clinch the West for the second time in three years. They also have a division championship in '15. 

"As Hawkeyes, let’s continue to support all our coaches, staff and student-athletes in their pursuit of a Big Ten Championship and bowl game victory," Goetz at the conclusion of her statement. 

Brian Ferentz played for his father at Iowa, finishing his college career with the '05 season. He spent a brief time on the Atlanta Falcons' practice squad. 

"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," Brian said in a statement given to ESPN's Pete Thamel. 

"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 well being of our students and the success of our team."