Joey Labas is gearing up for his first career start at Iowa during the Music City Bowl against Kentucky. Despite Spencer Petras being sidelined with an injury, Labas says the veteran quarterback is still chipping in during practices.

According to Labas, Petras is “like a third coach” with how he’s helping Labas prepare for the game. Petras speaks with Labas between every play in practice, and Labas could not be more appreciative of Petras’ leadership.

Labas will try to soak up all he can in practice before the bowl game. With Petras unavailable due to injury and Alex Padilla transferring, Labas is likely to take every rep despite not making any starts before the bowl game.

As for the playbook, Labas said the Hawkeyes are preparing to roll out some stuff the team has never used before. Those plays are a product of Labas’ ability to be more mobile outside of the pocket.