The 2024 season will be the 26th under head coach Kirk Ferentz for the Iowa Hawkeyes. In that quarter century, the Hawkeyes are 196-119 with a 10-10 bowl record.
Overall, it's been a successful run, but the itch to take the next step on the national stage is becoming apparent. Nationally, the perception of Iowa is 'tough opponent, but they can't keep up on the scoreboard.' It's not exactly a raving endorsement of the future of the program.
Nonetheless, ESPN sees the Hawkeyes as a fringe-elite program moving forward. So which is it, is Iowa on the verge of something special, or is Ferentz muddying into mediocrity?
I recently took my own stab at ranking the hot seats of each Big Ten coach, and in my estimation, the seat is getting warm for Ferentz. Despite reaching two Big Ten Championship games in three years, there isn't much reason to believe Iowa is going to become a national powerhouse under his stead.
The DEFCON scale isn't at red alert just yet, but if in 25 years the peak is one shared conference championship and a 1-2 record in New York Six Bowl Games, there's reason for doubts.
However, when CBS Sports made their determination of the hottest seats in all of college football, Ferentz was one of 49 coaches to be determined as safe, for now. CBS Sports' scale ranged from 0-5, with 5 being the hottest seat. CBS Sports gave a 2 to Ferentz.
It's a fair ranking. At some point, something has to give. With a new-look conference and an expanded playoff field, Iowa has a great opportunity to take a positive step forward. However, the chances of becoming a true afterthought are looming.
The 2024 season could be a pivotal one in determining the long-term future of Ferentz at Iowa. Otherwise, the Hawkeyes could be forced into looking in another direction.
Up Next: