No. 18 Iowa State secured a thrilling victory over No. 15 Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, capping off their historic season with a 42-41 win. Rocco Becht's one-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-goal with just 56 seconds left sealed the victory for the Cyclones.
Becht showcased his talent with 270 passing yards and three touchdowns, leading Iowa State to their best season in school history with an impressive 11-2 record. This season marked a significant milestone for the Cyclones, who had never won more than nine games in a single year prior to this remarkable achievement.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams delivering impressive performances. Miami's Cam Ward put on a record-setting display in the first half, passing for three touchdowns in his final college game. Despite Ward's efforts, Iowa State mounted a comeback from a 10-point deficit in the second half to secure their 11th win of the season.
Carson Hansen also played a crucial role for the Cyclones, rushing for two touchdowns in the high-scoring contest. Miami, on the other hand, saw standout performances from Damien Martinez, who rushed for a career-high 179 yards, and Mark Fletcher Jr., who contributed with a touchdown run.
The game was marked by explosive offensive plays, with both teams combining for 625 yards and 59 points by halftime. Iowa State's decisive 84-yard drive in the final minutes ultimately delivered the winning score, capping off a thrilling matchup between the two competitive teams.
Looking ahead, Iowa State is set to open the 2025 season against Kansas State in Dublin, Ireland, while Miami will kick off their season at home against Notre Dame over Labor Day weekend.
Despite the loss, Miami set a new school record with Andy Borregales' impressive performance, highlighting the individual achievements that emerged from the intense competition on the field.
Both teams showcased their resilience and determination throughout the game, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final seconds. The Pop-Tarts Bowl will be remembered as a thrilling clash between two talented teams vying for victory.
