In a move that underscores the competitive nature of Iowa football this fall, head coach Kirk Ferentz released the Hawkeyes’ first depth chart on Tuesday. The document lists senior quarterbacks Jeremy Hecklinski and Hank Brown side by side, each marked with an “or” to indicate that the starting position has not yet been decided.
Quarterback battle remains open
Although Hank Brown appears first on the list, the order follows jersey numbers rather than a hierarchy. Ferentz has repeatedly emphasized that the quarterback competition is “neck and neck” and that there is no rush to name a definitive starter. Hecklinski impressed fans during the recent Kids Day event, throwing five touchdown passes in a single afternoon, but Ferentz cautioned that this performance was only a snapshot of a larger evaluation process.
Both quarterbacks have posted nearly identical statistics across the metrics the coaching staff monitors, and each has experienced both strong and challenging outings this summer. The uncertainty surrounding the starter adds an extra layer of intrigue to Iowa’s season opener, scheduled for 3:15 p.m. on BTN against Northern Illinois at home.
Other notable depth chart entries
The depth chart also highlights several transfer players who have earned starting roles. Wide receivers Evan James, a transfer from Furman, and Tony Diaz, arriving from UTRGV, are listed as the starting duo on the outside. Running back LJ Phillips, transferred from South Dakota, will serve as the backup to senior Kamari Moulton. On defense, Villanova transfer Anthony Hawkins has secured the starting strong safety spot.
Coach Ferentz will address the media at his weekly news conference on Tuesday, where he is expected to provide further insight into the quarterback decision and discuss the overall preparation of the team heading into the first game of the season.
What this means for Hawkeyes fans
For Iowa supporters, the open quarterback competition reflects a broader commitment to merit-based evaluation and depth across the roster. The coaching staff’s willingness to keep the decision open until the final moments of practice week signals confidence that either Hecklinski or Brown can lead the offense effectively.
As the Hawkeyes prepare to open the season on their home field, fans can anticipate a competitive atmosphere in the locker room and a strong performance from the entire offensive unit, regardless of which quarterback ultimately receives the first snap.
Looking ahead
The upcoming game against Northern Illinois will serve as the first real test of the depth chart’s configuration. Iowa’s ability to execute both the passing and running games will be closely watched, and the quarterback who earns the starting nod will have the opportunity to set the tone for the rest of the season.
Stay tuned for the official announcement after the final practice, and for post‑game analysis once the Hawkeyes take the field on Saturday.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
