The stage is set for one of college football's most intriguing matchups as the Iowa State Cyclones prepare to face the Miami Hurricanes on December 28 at the 2024 Pop-Tarts Bowl, scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. ET at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This game is one of only three bowl games featuring two ranked teams outside of the College Football Playoff (CFP), making it one of the most anticipated non-playoff matchups of the season.
Both teams have had rocky paths to this bowl game, having come tantalizingly close to their season goals. The Miami Hurricanes, ranked 13th, began the season strong, winning their first nine games and soaring to as high as fourth place in the AP Poll. Unfortunately for the Hurricanes, they stumbled toward the finish line, losing two of their last three games, including a devastating defeat against Syracuse, which knocked them out of the ACC Championship contention. Nevertheless, Miami finished the regular season at 10-2.
Meanwhile, the 18th-ranked Iowa State Cyclones had their own ups and downs. After starting their season with seven consecutive wins, they hit a rough patch, suffering losses to Texas Tech and Kansas. But they regrouped, winning three straight games, which allowed them to advance to the Big 12 Championship, where they faced Arizona State but came up short. Iowa State's record stands at 10-3, and they now have the chance to achieve their first-ever 11-win season.
While the matchup itself is significant, what makes the Pop-Tarts Bowl particularly memorable is the quirky tradition surrounding it. The trophy for the game is not just any trophy—this year, it includes a fully functioning toaster. The winner of the game will not only be celebrating victory on the field, but they will also have the honor of selecting one of three edible Pop-Tart mascots to be ceremoniously toasted and devoured by the winning team. The mascots this year include Frosted Wild Berry, Frosted Hot Fudge Sundae, and Frosted Cinnamon Roll. Such indulgence speaks to the lighthearted spirit of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, which has drawn attention since its inception as the Cheez-It Bowl.
The history of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, originally known as the Blockbuster Bowl when it started back in 1990, has witnessed several transformations over the years. This year marks its second outing under the Pop-Tarts branding, following 2023's quirky ceremony where the mascot was toasted and then eaten—a spectacle not soon forgotten.
Cam Ward, the Hurricanes' star quarterback and Heisman finalist, is expected to play, which is unusual since many underclassmen opt out of bowl games to prepare for the NFL draft. Ward's decision reflects not only his commitment to his team but also his desire to finish the season strong. He shattered Miami’s passing records with 4,123 yards and 36 touchdowns and aims to lead Miami to victory, thereby boosting their final record to 11 wins, which would be their first since 2003. “To do a job, you must finish the job,” said Miami coach Mario Cristobal, emphasizing the importance of completing the season strong.
Iowa State, on the other hand, is led by Matt Campbell, who has cultivated a program with strong values, trusted leadership, and resilience. The Cyclones feature standout receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel, both of whom have surpassed 1,000 receiving yards—a rare accomplishment for Iowa State. "We are fortunate to have great leadership," Campbell noted, highlighting the character of his senior players as they prepare for this important game.
This matchup will also mark the first time Iowa State and Miami meet on the gridiron, adding to the excitement surrounding the event. Historically, the Hurricanes have appeared six times at this bowl, making it the most of any team, whereas this will be only Iowa State’s third appearance. The stakes are high for both programs, each vying for success on such a public stage.
Fans are not only excited about the on-field action but also curious about the postgame celebrations. Will the winning team toast their Pop-Tart mascot live on air? What flavor will be chosen? The anticipation of these questions only adds to the buzz surrounding the 2024 Pop-Tarts Bowl. An interactive experience awaits fans both on-site and at home, as viewers can watch the game on ABC or stream it via ESPN Plus.
Additional elements to the bowl game weekend include various festivities set to enrich the event experience, making it as much about celebrating college football as it is about the competition. The Pep Rally, set to start early on game day, promises even more excitement.
Getting access to the game could be easier than anticipated, with tickets listed at affordable prices through various secondary markets. Fans eager to witness the unique blend of college football and playful traditions will have plenty of opportunities to catch the action.
While both teams are focused on the championship, the Pop-Tarts Bowl’s delightful peculiarities and the rich histories of Miami and Iowa State set the stage for what promises to be more than just another college football game; it’s a celebration of teamwork, tradition, and tantalizingly sweet competition. Kickoff is just around the corner, and fans are gearing up for one of the zaniest and most fun bowl games of 2024.
