Iowa Hawkeyes Bench Cade McNamara, Brendan Sullivan Takes Over at Quarterback

In a significant move during their game against the Northwestern Wildcats on October 26, 2024, the Iowa Hawkeyes benched quarterback Cade McNamara and replaced him with Brendan Sullivan. This decision came after McNamara threw a pick six in the second quarter, which proved to be the final straw for head coach Kirk Ferentz.

McNamara’s performance this season has been under scrutiny, with fans and coaches alike expressing frustration over his consistent mistakes. He has missed easy passes and his errors have cost the team crucial points and drives. Ferentz had previously stated that McNamara needed to improve his play, and the pick six against Northwestern was the catalyst for the change.

Brendan Sullivan took over at quarterback on the ensuing drive, although the Hawkeyes were unable to move the ball significantly on his first drive. Sullivan completed his only pass for two yards but had the opportunity to make a major impact for the rest of the game. His performance could determine whether he retains the starting job or if McNamara will be given another chance.

Sullivan’s debut as the new quarterback showed promise, as he rushed for a six-yard touchdown at the start of the third quarter, helping the Hawkeyes score another touchdown. The change at quarterback reflects the coaching staff’s growing dissatisfaction with McNamara’s performance and their hope that Sullivan can bring a fresh and more effective approach to the team’s offense.