Kirk Ferentz and Iowa capped a dramatic win over Michigan State Saturday night in a classic Iowa fashion. With the game tied at 16-apiece, it was a clutch special teams play and a punt return by Cooper DeJean that swung the game.

Unfortunately, all eyes in Iowa City are on the quarterback position after another injury. Deacon Hill finished the game under center after Cade McNamara went down with another non-contact injury against the Spartans.

Ferentz discussed the disappointment for the injury during his postgame press conference but also took a moment to praise Hill’s performance in relief.

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“Impressed how Deacon stepped in. Tough circumstance. Disappointing mostly for Cade to go down early with an injury like that,” said Ferentz. “We won’t really know his status until early next week, but nonetheless very disappointing. Can only imagine how he’s feeling but I thought Deacon stepped into a tough situation and really did a good job leading our football team. Making good decisions, especially in the second half in some critical situations.”

As for McNamara’s outlook, Ferentz declined speculation but said it’s always concerning when a player is helped off the field:

“I don’t want to speculate but it always is concerning when a guy has to be helped off the field. Just the missed time — period — right now considering what he’s been through is tough,” Ferentz explained. “You feel bad for any player that’s injured but in his case it’s rough.”