In a surprising move, Iowa offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz, son of longtime coach Kirk Ferentz, will not be returning for the 2024 season. The announcement was made by interim athletic director Beth Goetz, who discussed the situation with both Brian Ferentz, Kirk Ferentz, and university president Barbara Wilson.

The decision to part ways with Ferentz comes in light of the team's historic struggles on offense this season, as well as the unique circumstances surrounding Ferentz's contract. The Hawkeyes have experienced a lackluster performance on offense, ranking 118th nationally in scoring offense with an average of 19.5 points per game. Additionally, the team sits at the bottom nationally in yards per game with just 232.4.

Ferentz, who has been with the team since 2012 and served as the offensive coordinator since 2017, had an unusual contract provision that required the team to average 25 points per game during the 2023 season and win at least seven games for his contract to be extended beyond June 30, 2024. Unfortunately, the offense fell short of these requirements.

The departure of Ferentz marks a significant change for the Iowa football program, as he has been a prominent figure within the coaching staff for several years. However, Goetz emphasized that the decision was made in the best interest of the program and its dedicated fans.

Goetz stated, "Our priority is to put all our student-athletes in the best position to have both short-term and long-term success, on and off the field. Our football team has a group of outstanding young men and talented athletes, who at 6-2, have a lot to play for."

Despite the news, Iowa is preparing for their upcoming game against Northwestern at Wrigley Field in Chicago. The team, currently at a 6-2 record, will look to rally and secure victory with a revamped offensive strategy.

It remains to be seen who will step into the role of offensive coordinator moving forward. Kirk Ferentz, the nation's longest-tenured coach, has had only three offensive coordinators in his tenure at Iowa. The loss of Brian Ferentz leaves a void to be filled, and fans await Kirk Ferentz's address to reporters on Tuesday in Iowa City for further insights.

Brian Ferentz, in a statement to ESPN's Pete Thamel, expressed his dedication to the university and the football team, saying, "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. In that time, my singular goal has been to contribute to the football team's success."

As the Iowa football program undergoes this significant change, the focus remains on the team's performance for the remainder of the season and the search for a new offensive coordinator who can lead the Hawkeyes to success on the field.