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Iowa coach Ferentz keeps starting quarterback position open for season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 4:02 AM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Iowa coach Ferentz keeps starting quarterback position open for season opener

Summary

Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz enters the final week of preparations for the September 5 season opener against Northern Illinois without a settled starting quarterback. Third-year player Jeremy Hecklinski and fourth-year player Hank Brown remain in contention for the job. While Hecklinski performed well during an August 15 practice, the coaching staff is evaluating the full body of work from fall camp. Offensive coordinator Tim Lester suggested the competition could potentially extend into the season. Neither quarterback has started a Big Ten game, though Brown previously made two starts for Auburn in 2024. The Hawkeyes are also resolving position battles at punter and kicker before the game at Kinnick Stadium.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Iowa faces Northern Illinois on September 5 at Kinnick Stadium.
•Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown are competing for the starting role.
•Cael Winter secured the starting center position.
•Kade Pieper will start at right guard.
•Coaches continue to evaluate candidates for punter and kicker.

Latest Updates

4:02 AMYahoo Sports — Iowa football news: Hawkeyes' QB situation still a mystery days before 2026 opener

What they're saying

"
Iowa’s quarterback competition remains unresolved less than a week before the Hawkeyes open the 2026 season against Northern Illinois on Sept. 5 at Kinnick Stadium. Third-year quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski and fourth-year signal-caller Hank Brown have remained close throughout fall camp, according to head coach Kirk Ferentz. The competition is […] The post Iowa football news: Hawkeyes' QB situation still a mystery days before 2026 opener appeared first on ClutchPoints.
— Yahoo Sports

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