Fans and college football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the Pop-Tarts Bowl, where the Miami Hurricanes will face the Iowa State Cyclones for the first time ever at Camping World Field in Orlando. Set to kick off at 3:30 PM EST on December 28, 2023, the matchup promises to be not just another bowl game, but also offers bragging rights between the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and Big 12.
This year marks the second edition of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, which revived its name after previously being known as the Cheez-It Bowl among other monikers like the Tangerine Bowl and the Blockbuster Bowl. The whimsical nature of the bowl's branding was peppered with fun by placing sprinkles on the sidelines, which Miami's team proudly showcased following permission from the NCAA. National college sportswriter Nichole Auerbach captured the excitement on social media, stating, "New favorite part of the @PopTartsBowl: That they asked for and received permission from the NCAA to put sprinkles on the field."
While the sprinkles are attracting attention, the primary focus is the talent on the field, particularly Miami quarterback Cam Ward, who is also a Heisman Trophy finalist. Ward, whose exceptional season has propelled him onto mock draft boards as one of the potential top picks for the 2024 NFL Draft, surprised fans by announcing he would take the field for this game. "The whole team is still here right now," Ward affirmed. "We’re trying to prepare for (Iowa State). Try to go win our last game of the year." His commitment to play is noteworthy as many top talents choose to sit out bowl games to avoid injury risk before going pro.
Ward's head coach, Mario Cristobal, echoed the values behind his star's decision. He stated, "Nowadays, in college football, we are compensated at all levels, right? Coaches, players, administrators... to do a job. You must finish the job." This reflects on the importance of playing at high levels, particularly against formidable opponents like Iowa State.
On the other side of the field, Iowa State has also had its share of highlights this season, achieving its first-ever 10-win season. Cyclones head coach Matt Campbell reflected on his team's accomplishments, stating, "This has been a really special year for us. You're talking about a lot of firsts in the 133-year history of Iowa State football." He stressed the resilience of his player, especially as they faced numerous injuries yet still maintained their performance, showcasing tenacity and teamwork.
Campbell also rejected any notion of deriding teams like Iowa State for playing outside the College Football Playoff system, exclaiming, "To say something like [not being a strong team] is ridiculous, to be quite honest with you." His steadfast belief speaks to the pride Iowa State carries, particularly after such historical achievements this season.
Overall, the Pop-Tarts Bowl offers both squads the chance to end their seasons on high notes. The Miami Hurricanes aim for their first bowl victory since 2016 and would land their first 11-win season since 2003 with this victory. On the other hand, Iowa State, bolstered by tenacity and talent, looks to cap off its historic run with another landmark win.
Fans eagerly anticipate what this peculiar yet thrilling bowl game will bring on December 28, inspired by the heart and soul both teams have poured pours to overcome challenges and deliver memorable college football moments.
