The biggest complaint about Iowa’s impressive 2021 season was the quarterback situation. The Hawkeyes managed to win 10 games and earn a trip to the B1G Championship Game despite issues in the passing attack and some struggles under center.

With quarterback coach Ken O’Keefe out the door and offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz taking control of that position group, there are going to be plenty of eyes on Iowa’s QB situation this spring. The battle between Spencer Petras and Alex Padilla will be of particular interest.

Earlier this week, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz met with reporters as the Hawkeyes prepare for the start of spring ball. When it comes to Petras and Padilla, he likes the experience that both guys bring to the table.

“They’ve played. They’ve been out there when games end. I think the good news is that we feel they’re both capable of playing really good football for us,” Ferentz said, per 247Sports. “And our goal is to try to get them to play a little bit better and everybody around them helping a little bit more. I think really that’s the story of our offense right now.”

Petras was the starter for the Hawkeyes during the 10-4 season last year. He ended the season with 1,880 yards through the air and 10 touchdowns. His accuracy still needs some work, tossing 9 picks and only completing 57.3% of his passes.

Padilla, who did see relevant playing time at points throughout the year, had 636 yards and 2 touchdowns with 2 interceptions and a completion rate under 50%

Right now, there is no guarantee for the Hawkeyes at quarterback.

“Everybody’s competing right now,” Ferentz said. “And on one hand, he’s got an edge or things he does better than Alex. But I can flip it around saying there’s things that Alex can do a bit better too. We’ll ride it out, see where it all goes. But we’ll get it figured out. And the good news is both guys are totally capable.”