For the first time under Kirk Ferentz, the Iowa Hawkeyes are having to deal with lofty pre-season expectations. The Hawkeyes followed up their Big Ten championship season with a 10-3 record in 2003 and a win over Florida in the Outback Bowl. The Hawks enter this season nationally ranked and one of the pre-season favorites in the Big TenFerentz says rankings are typically based upon what you’ve done in the past and how many starters you have coming back. He says he doesn’t think his competitor are too worried about what they’ve did last year — but what they are going to do in the fall.Ferentz says the program has reached a point where the Hawkeyes expect to contend every year.One concern is depth along the offensive line. David Walker and Brian Ferentz have not returned to practice after off season surgery. Ferentz says they obviously can’t afford anymore injuries and need to focus on staying healthy.For the first time in five years Iowa will not open the season with a senior at quarterback. A pair of sophomores are battling for the job and Drew Tate has an edge on Jason Manson. Ferentz says both are have the leadership qualities and charisma to hold the position. Iowa opens September 4th against Kent State.
