Orlando, Fla. — The Iowa State Cyclones showcased their resilience throughout the season, and their concluding game reflected that spirit perfectly. In a thrilling finish, Rocco Becht, named the game’s MVP, scored a touchdown from one yard out on a crucial fourth-and-goal play with only 56 seconds on the clock. This decisive moment propelled No. 18 Iowa State to a dramatic 42-41 victory over No. 15 Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, marking the most successful season in the history of the Cyclones.
Becht’s performance included 270 passing yards and three touchdowns, leading Iowa State to an impressive 11-2 season. Notably, this surpasses the previous record in the program’s 133-year history; they had never recorded more than nine wins in a single season before. Coach Matt Campbell reflected on his team’s journey, stating, “If you look at this team, it’s really who they’ve been all year.”
This victory signifies the fourth occasion this season that the Cyclones achieved a game-winning score in the closing two minutes. Trailing by 10 points during the latter part of the game, Iowa State showcased their trademark tenacity, bouncing back with Becht at the helm, while Miami quarterback Cam Ward observed after an impressive first half. Carson Hansen also contributed significantly, scoring two rushing touchdowns for Iowa State.
As a nod to his MVP status, Becht was given the unique opportunity to choose a flavor of Pop-Tart for a ceremonial tribute by being placed in a gigantic toaster. His selection? “There’s only one,” he proclaimed. “Cinnamon roll.”
For Miami, Ward closed out his college career by throwing three touchdown passes, while Damien Martinez had a standout game with a career-best 179 rushing yards. Despite the loss, Miami finished the season with a record of 10-3, extending their bowl game losing streak to six. The Hurricanes faced tough losses in their last four games, three of which were decided by a narrow total of ten points. Miami’s coach, Mario Cristobal, expressed disappointment in the loss but acknowledged the team’s fighting spirit, stating, “These guys have always fought and always competed.”
Additionally, Martinez and Mark Fletcher Jr. found the end zone for Miami, who were aiming for their first 11-win season since 2003. Several players, including Elijah Arroyo, Jojo Trader, and Jacolby George, contributed with touchdown catches. The critical winning score for Iowa State came from an impressive 15-play, 84-yard drive, with Hansen expressing pride in the collective team effort: “Just a great team win, and it was great to see that confetti fall.”
The game was particularly thrilling in the first half, characterized by explosive offensive plays. A fumble on Miami’s very first play set the tone, leading to a relentless exchange of touchdowns that resulted in a combined total of 625 offensive yards and 59 points by halftime, with Miami holding a slight 31-28 advantage. During this frenzied first half, the only punter to take the field was Tyler Perkins of Iowa State, who entered during a unique sequence of touchdowns back and forth.
In the first half, Ward completed 12 of 19 passes for 190 yards and three touchdowns before Emory Williams came on in the second half. Miami’s Fletcher increased their lead to 38-28 with a one-yard touchdown run midway through the third quarter; however, the Hurricanes could only manage three more points in their final three possessions of the game.
Reflecting on the season’s conclusion, Campbell remarked on the significance it holds: “To end the season this way, it’s really fitting. It really tells the character of this team. Hard to find teams still in college football, but we’ve got one in Ames, Iowa.”
Key takeaways from the game: Iowa State showcased their strong offensive drive with touchdown series of 22, 75, 65, and 75 yards in the early game, totaling 237 yards. In contrast, Miami managed to hold a hefty record with 50 wins without losing when scoring at least 38 points since 2000; they now hold a second loss following a streak-ending defeat earlier this season.
In looking ahead, Miami aims to break new ground by ensuring they remain in the AP Top 25, while Iowa State intends to capitalize on their success when they open the 2025 season against Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland, on August 23. Miami is set to face Notre Dame at home sometime around Labor Day weekend, with the exact date yet to be confirmed.
