ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Iowa State capped its historic 2024 season with a thrilling 42-41 comeback victory over Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday, marking the Cyclones’ first ever 11-win season. Rocco Becht emerged as the game’s hero, scoring the winning touchdown on a 1-yard run with just 56 seconds remaining.
This victory was not just another game; it demonstrated the Cyclones’ resolve throughout the season, particularly during fourth-quarter comebacks. Coach Matt Campbell remarked, "If you look at this team, it’s really who they’ve been all year,” acknowledging the team’s character and determination.
The game unfolded spectacularly, with Iowa State trailing 38-28 midway through the third quarter before launching its comeback. The Cyclones, ranked No. 18, entered the matchup with the motivation of achieving their first 11-win season, a goal they positioned themselves to reach after being previously stuck at nine wins for more than a century of football.
Miami, ranked No. 15 and seeking its own milestone of 11 victories, had initially taken control of the game. Notably, quarterback Cam Ward had passed for three touchdowns and carved his name in NCAA history by becoming the Division I record holder for career passing touchdowns with 156. Despite his brilliance, Ward did not return for the second half, opting out to prepare for the NFL draft.
The game started explosively, with Miami fumbling the ball on the game's opening snap followed by eight consecutive touchdown drives. By halftime, the scoreboard reflected Miami’s 31-28 lead, the teams having collectively amassed 59 points and 625 yards of offense.
Becht, who was 22-of-36 for 270 yards and who also rushed for significant yardage, received the game MVP title for his performance. "There’s only one," he said jubilantly about choosing which mascot Pop-Tart flavor—Cinnamon Roll—would be ceremoniously sacrificed after the game.
Miam’s efforts to extend their lead included Fletcher's rushing touchdown, which briefly put the Hurricanes up 38-28. But Iowa State wasn't finished. The Cyclones immediately answered back, scoring on a series of successful drives, concluding with Becht’s dynamic run to seal the game.
The defeat marked Miami's sixth consecutive bowl loss, and head coach Mario Cristobal expressed his disappointment but also recognized the competitive spirit exhibited by his players. "Disappointed we couldn’t pull out a victory," he stated, believing there was much to build on for the future.
Miami's Damien Martinez shone brightly, rushing for 179 yards and scoring, but his team faltered down the final stretch, unable to maintain momentum against Iowa State’s pressure. The final moments saw Miami fail to get beyond midfield, ending their last drive with an interception.
Looking at the bigger picture, Iowa State's victory not only signifies the end of the season but reflects how far the program has come under Campbell's leadership. The Cyclones' best season is followed by expectations of sustaining success moving forward, including their upcoming season opener against Kansas State abroad.
The next few months promise excitement for both teams as they prepare for new chapters—Miami looks to rebound against perennial rival Notre Dame, aiming to recharge their season's narrative.
Overall, this thrilling Pop-Tarts Bowl showcased the essence of college football: intense competition, record-breaking performances, and dramatic comebacks, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for these two storied programs.
