I'm almost 77 and witnessed the 60/70s debacle. Iowa was not prepared for the end of limited substitution football in the mid 60's. For that matter, nor was most of the Big Ten. Trying to compete with teams using the max number of scholarships (45/Yr or a roster of 180) when the Big Ten permitted 30/Yr or a roster of 120. I believe, like you, that Kirk's time is up. His football philosophy will no longer work in these days of the mega conferences. He is loyal to his players to a fault, witness his inability to insert a different QB today and one than could run a designed play.
Beth Goetz needs to look at this season as Kirk's last because this offense has a lot of bigger challenges than Iowa State on the schedule. He didn't handle BF firing well, and if the disgruntled people that count pull their resources she will need to move.