Brian Ferentz’s time as Iowa’s play-caller is reportedly nearing its end. David Eickholt of Hawkeye Insider reported Monday that Ferentz is not expected to return to Iowa for the 2024 season.

Iowa is 6-2 overall and is tied for first in the Big Ten West. Ferentz’s unit, however, has struggled all season as the defense and special teams have done the heavy lifting.

According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Iowa ranks No. 127 in offensive efficiency among the 133 teams in the FBS. No Power 5 team has a lower offensive efficiency.

Ferentz entered the season on an adjusted contract. In addition to a $50,000 pay cut, the contract mandated that Iowa score an average of 25 points per game, including a bowl game.

Defense and special teams scores counted toward the mark of 25 points per game, but it still has not been enough. The Hawkeyes are well behind the contract’s pace, scoring just 156 total points in their first 8 games.

Iowa’s offensive issues have gotten worse since starting quarterback Cade McNamara, a Michigan transfer, suffered a season-ending injury in September. McNamara plans to return in 2024.

Iowa was off in Week 9. The Hawkeyes return to action in Week 10, taking on Northwestern. The game is set for 3:30 p.m. ET at Wrigley Field., with an over/under of just 29.5 total points.