IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) — Iowa coach Kirk Ferentz says Phil Parker could have left Iowa for a defensive coordinator’s job at another major program more than once.
Ferentz says that while he appreciated Parker’s loyalty, the reason he made Parker Iowa’s new defensive coordinator was because he the best man for the job.
Ferentz announced Parker’s promotion from defensive backs coach Tuesday. Ferentz says Parker has proven himself over his 13 seasons with the Hawkeyes and will be outstanding in his expanded role.
Ferentz also said Wednesday that departed offensive coordinator Ken O’Keefe’s job will be a tough one to fill. Ferentz says O’Keefe’s relationship with Miami Dolphins coach Joe Philbin, a former assistant at Iowa, played a major role in his decision to leave for Miami.
