IOWA CITY, Iowa As he grows older and even more self-deprecating, Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz tends to reflect with awe when he discusses his players, from the adversity they overcome to the accomplishments they achieve during a football season.

Three of Ferentzs sons played for him and two had surgeries. Hes had the pleasure of coaching thousands of other sons over his 21 years as head coach, and from battling through injuries to academic challenges, his players inspire him as much Ferentz is supposed to lead his players. He feels just as fulfilled watching a walk-on exert effort on the scout team as he does a starting performer execute on third down.

I have such respect for the guys that run the entire race, that stay here and fight through the adversity they go through, whether its academically, injury-wise, all the things that are challenging about being a student-athlete at this level, Ferentz said. Its a really impressive group of...

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'This program has it all': Iowa seniors on life as a Hawkeye, lasting memories and what it's like to play for... - The Athletic