Iowa football comfortable if Jeremy Hecklinski gets start

Key Points:

• Iowa is likely to start backup quarterback Jeremy Hecklinski against Washington due to starter Hank Brown's questionable status from a right-shoulder injury, marking Hecklinski's first college start.
• The Hawkeyes face growing concerns at the safety position with multiple injuries, including the long-term absence of Tyler Brown and uncertainty around other key safeties.
• Despite a struggling running game averaging just 2.53 yards per carry against Power 4 opponents, Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz is not planning immediate changes to the offensive line before the short-week game.
• Iowa's coaching staff and players are preparing for a challenging short week with a long trip to Seattle, focusing on mental readiness and viewing the upcoming game as the midpoint of a demanding six-game stretch before a bye week.
• The quarterback competition between Brown and Hecklinski has fostered a supportive dynamic, with both players benefiting from the close contest and the coaching staff maintaining flexibility based on health and performance.