Kirk Ferentz has never been a person to show his full hand, especially during rivalry week.
Ferentz reiterated that it was good to get the win last week first and foremost, and as soon as the calendar changed to September, the Hawkeyes started preparation for the Cyclones.
Iowa has history on its side as the squad travels to Ames for game No. 72 in the storied in-state rivalry, having won the last six matchups at Jack Trice Stadium.
This year's Iowa State team comes into the matchup ranked No. 16, the first time they have been ranked heading into the Cy-Hawk game since 1978 (ranked No. 20).
Throw out the tape, it's rivalry week in Iowa!
During his week pregame press conference, Kirk Ferentz started with a breif statement about last week's game, but quickly moved on to the game against Iowa State.
The head Hawkeye had nothing but praise for Iowa State Head Coach Matt Campbell and quarterback Rocco Becht, and he also celebrated the high school programs in Iowa for giving both schools so much talent.
Ferentz was tight-lipped on schematics for the game, but stated they are a tough team to prepare for because they are well-coached and "have veterans where it counts."
He was extremely complimentary of Becht, stating he plays like a veteran, and they will have to be at their best to beat him.
Ferentz was also pressed on Mark Gronowski after his subpar performance last week, but Ferentz would only say that he wishes they had thrown the ball better, but he knows Mark will be fine.
Ferentz did not deviate from his traditional "coach speak," simply stating Iowa State has an identity, and they will need to practice and prepare well to be ready for it.