Iowa HC Kirk Ferentz Sets ‘Unbreakable’ Big Ten Record
Kirk Ferentz has solidified his place as one of college football’s greatest coaches.
Heading into Week 3, the Iowa Hawkeyes had a chance to make history, and they did just that. Not only did they extend their undefeated streak against MAC opponents, but Ferentz set a new record that could stand for years to come.
Iowa’s 47-7 victory over UMass marked Ferentz’s 206th win as the Hawkeyes’ head coach. Having started at Iowa in 1999, Ferentz spent 26 years surpassing Woody Hayes, a record that many considered unbreakable. Just a week earlier, former head coach Urban Meyer declared that Ferentz’s achievements would be impossible to surpass.
“I’m going to go on record and say I thought the Woody Hayes record was unbreakable,” Meyer said. “When he [Ferentz] breaks this record, it will be unbreakable.”
Ferentz continues to defy expectations as his coaching career has only gotten better with time. A post by reporter Mitch Fick highlighted his winning percentages: from 2005 to 2014 (his 50s), Ferentz had a .574 winning percentage. But in his 60s (2015-2024), that number increased to an impressive .695.
Heading into Week 3, Iowa was a 35.5-point favorite. After a blowout win in Week 1 and a disappointing loss to Iowa State in Week 2, many fans were unsure about the team’s future, especially due to inconsistent quarterback play. However, Iowa put all doubts to rest by dominating UMass for the full 60 minutes.
Reflecting on the milestone after the game, Ferentz acknowledged his good fortune. “I’ve been so fortunate and I’ve had outstanding mentors… There’s nobody in the world that would’ve hired me. I was 25 years old as a GA, and he hired me out here in the Big Ten.”
Ferentz was quick to credit Hayden Fry, the coach who gave him his first opportunity, recognizing how vital that moment was in shaping his legendary career. What started as a desire to be the best offensive line coach has turned into an iconic coaching legacy.
Iowa quickly took control of the game, jumping to a 20-0 lead in the first quarter. Although quarterback Mark Gronowski hadn’t thrown for over 100 yards in the first two games, he was the standout performer in this one. Gronowski completed 16 of 24 passes for 179 yards and two touchdowns. Additionally, Kaden Wetjen made history by becoming the first Hawkeye to score a rushing, receiving, punt, and kick return touchdown in the program’s history.
The Big Ten Network shared a heartwarming video of former Hawkeyes congratulating Ferentz on his 206th win. With this milestone achieved, the focus for Ferentz and the team can now shift to the rest of the 2025 season.
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