Iowa State Cyclones overcame a 10-point second-half deficit to defeat Miami Hurricanes 42-41 in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, setting a school record with 11 wins. Quarterback Rocco Becht led the Cyclones with a game-winning drive and was named MVP. The game featured high-scoring action and record-breaking performances, including Miami's Cam Ward setting an NCAA touchdown record.
The Iowa State Cyclones capped off a historic season with a nail-biting victory over the Miami Hurricanes in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, held at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The Cyclones rallied from a 10-point deficit in the second half to secure a 42-41 win, setting a new school record for most wins in a single season with 11. The thrilling match was marked by high-scoring plays and a dramatic finish, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Cyclones.
Iowa State's victory over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl marked a significant achievement for the Cyclones, as they set a new school record with 11 wins in a single season. Quarterback Rocco Becht played a pivotal role in the win, leading the team on a decisive 15-play, 84-yard drive that culminated in a fourth-and-goal touchdown with just 56 seconds left on the clock. Becht's performance earned him the title of Pop-Tarts Bowl MVP, as he threw for 270 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Carson Hansen also made history by scoring three touchdowns, breaking the school's record for most touchdowns in a bowl game [1].
The Miami Hurricanes started strong, taking a 31-28 lead at halftime in what was one of the highest-scoring first halves in a bowl game since the 2019 Peach Bowl. Miami's quarterback Cam Ward set an NCAA Division I record for career touchdown passes, adding three more to his tally in the first half before being substituted for precautionary reasons. Despite Ward's absence in the second half, Miami continued to find success on the ground, with running back Damien Martinez rushing for a career-high 179 yards. However, the Hurricanes ultimately fell short, marking their sixth consecutive bowl game loss [2].
The Pop-Tarts Bowl was characterized by its back-and-forth nature, with both teams trading touchdowns throughout the game. Iowa State's defense played a crucial role in the final minutes, forcing Miami to punt for the first time and then intercepting a last-second pass to seal the victory. The Cyclones' ability to capitalize on Miami's mistakes, such as a fumble on the game's opening play, set the tone for their resilient performance. Iowa State coach Matt Campbell praised his team's character, stating, "If you look at this team, it’s really who they’ve been all year" [3].
The Pop-Tarts Bowl victory was a fitting end to a remarkable season for the Iowa State Cyclones, who demonstrated their tenacity and skill in overcoming a formidable Miami team. With standout performances from key players and strategic plays that turned the game in their favor, the Cyclones have set a new benchmark for success in the program's history. As they look forward to the next season, Iowa State will aim to build on this momentum and continue their upward trajectory in college football.