After Kirk Ferentz earned win No. 206, it was a special night, but it's on to Rutgers

Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz reacts after becoming the winningest coach in Big Ten history, passing Woody Hayes, with a win over the Massachusetts Minutemen Sept. 13, 2025 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa.
Iowa Hawkeyes head coach Kirk Ferentz reacts after becoming the winningest coach in Big Ten history, passing Woody Hayes, with a win over the Massachusetts Minutemen Sept. 13, 2025 at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. | Julia Hansen/Iowa City Press-Citizen / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Last Saturday night was a special night in Iowa City for the Iowa Football program.

Not only did quarterback Mark Gronowski break the all-time QB wins record with 51, but Kirk Ferentz became the all-time leader in wins in the Big Ten.

Ferentz noted that it was a surreal experience, and never thought about setting the record when he first arrived in Iowa City.

Now in year 27 as Iowa's Head Coach, Ferentz sits alone with 206 wins with the Hawkeyes.

After a dominating victory and an emotional night, Ferentz and the Hawkeyes are diligently preparing fir Rutgers on a short week of practice.

During his weekly press conference, Ferentz spoke about Saturday's emotional win, but stated he has not had time to enjoy it while he prepares for their next game.

Ferentz was happy with the effort his team game, but was critical of the passing attack.

He mentioned that they have improved the passing game, but there are still things that need to be addressed, like ball placement and catching the football.

Most of the discussion surrounded the drops by the receivers, and how it is becoming a trend each week.

Ferentz joked that despite what people think, they do coach players to catch the ball, and that is why they are called "wide receivers, not wide droppers."

He stated that guys are trying too hard, and start fighting it instead of slowing the game down and letting it come to them.

Ferentz also had high praise for Rutgers and head coach Greg Schiano as they prepare for a tough challenge in Piscataway, New Jersey, this Friday night.

Ferentz stated the team is very well coached and has playmakers in all three facets of the game. He also noted he has always admired Schiano and has a great deal of respect for what he's done in his career.

The Hawkeyes face a tough test as they face Rutgers on the road in the opening game of their Big Ten schedule on a short week of practice.

After an emotional win over UMass, the Hawkeyes must keep their momentum going if they hope to leave New Jersey with a win.

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