Kirk Ferentz responds to Brendan Sullivan playing time, usage inquiries

After a lifeless first half performance against Michigan State offensively, questions have emerged surrounding Iowa’s decision to stick with graduate quarterback Cade McNamara as its starter.

McNamara completed just 3-of-9 passes for 30 yards in the first half in East Lansing and the Hawkeyes punted on four of their five first-half possessions. Iowa gained just five yards and junior kicker Drew Stevens missed a 58-yard field goal on their fifth possession of the first half.

That was a wasted possession and opportunity after redshirt sophomore defensive back Koen Entringer had intercepted Michigan State sophomore quarterback Aidan Chiles. It was Iowa’s lone takeaway on the night.

McNamara did complete 8-of-14 passes in the second half for 120 yards with an 18-yard touchdown pass to freshman receiver Reece Vander Zee. The 6-foot-1, 210 pound quarterback threw a fourth quarter interception that stymied Iowa’s second-half momentum though, too.

Junior quarterback Brendan Sullivan has been used in red zone and goal line situations for Iowa over the course of the season. Sullivan, a 6-foot-4, 220 pound signal-caller, saw a pair of snaps against the Spartans. The Davison, Mich., product delivered a 2-yard rushing touchdown on one of them.

In his weekly press conference to preview Iowa’s opponent this week, Northwestern, Iowa head football coach Kirk Ferentz was asked what is holding him back from giving Sullivan a more extended look as the Hawkeyes’ quarterback.

“I think probably the biggest thing is it’s easier to talk about putting somebody in a game than just doing it, especially at that position. We’ve seen enough good things out of Cade to feel like he gives us our best chance out there. It’s like any position, although obviously there’s more eyes on this position.

“I think he’s done enough good…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/kirk-ferentz-responds-brendan-sullivan-221035790.html

Author : Hawkeyes Wire

Publish date : 2024-10-22 22:10:35

Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.