One of the country’s worst offenses will have a new quarterback on Saturday when Iowa plays Kentucky in the Music City Bowl. Redshirt freshman Joe Labas will get his first start against the Wildcats. Spencer Petras is out with a shoulder injury and Alex Padilla is in the portal. Senior tight end Sam LaPorta likes the way Labas has progressed in practice.

LaPorta missed the game against Nebraska after having his knee scoped. He has 53 catches and was a finalist for the Mackey Award as the nation’s top tight end.

Sophomore receiver Diante Vines says Labas will be ready.

Vines says while the playbook may be condensed there will not be a bunch of changes.

Senior corner Riley Moss says the mobility of Labas gives the offense a different wrinkle.

Between opt outs and transfers Moss says senior leadership has been even more important in bowl prep.