Kirk Ferentz Praises Iowa Players' Unique Bowl Decision

"It's gratifying to know our guys want to play the bowl game and want to enjoy this last opportunity to be together,” Ferentz told Chad Leistikow. “It's unique in that regard where I think we've got two teams that ... look a little bit like each other in some ways.”

There are certainly a few Hawkeyes that could've opted out due to NFL draft aspirations, but instead they're thrilled to be able to take the field together one last time. Center Logan Jones specifically could be a second round pick, but he wasn't about to let his team down and sit this one out.

Leistikow mentioned a few of Iowa's past notable opt-outs which included the likes of Noah Fant, Kaevon Merriweather, and Kaleb Johnson. Those players may have gone against the norm for Iowa, but it's always for a good reason. At the end of the day, Ferentz wouldn't have faulted anyone for opting out, but he's thrilled to see his team stick together.

Iowa Nearly At Full Strength vs. Vanderbilt

The Hawkeyes would love to see Hall suit up against Heisman finalist QB Diego Pavia, but they've been able to survive without him since November 15 at USC. Iowa's secondary will be tested, no doubt, but the Commodores saw a key opt-out from their All-American tight end.

Vanderbilt is still an extremely talented squad, but the Hawkeyes would've been even larger underdogs had a few of their own players opted out. Instead, it'll be a chance for these seniors to take the field in Florida to end their storied careers on a high note. Whether it's a one-and-done player like Mark Gronowski or someone like Xavier Nwankpa, there's room for everyone to get in the spotlight one final time at Raymond James Stadium.