Iowa State’s remarkable comeback season culminated in a thrilling victory as quarterback Rocco Becht scored a crucial 1-yard touchdown with just 56 seconds left, leading the No. 18 Cyclones to a 42-41 win over No. 15 Miami in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. This victory marks a record-setting achievement for Iowa State, which finished the season with an impressive 11-2 record, the best in the program’s 133-year history.
Becht secured the MVP title with 270 passing yards and three touchdowns, triumphing in a game where Iowa State overcame a 10-point deficit in the second half. Coach Matt Campbell praised the team for staying true to their identity throughout the season, demonstrating resilience and determination. This marks Iowa State’s fourth win of the year that came from a last-minute scoring drive.
Miami also delivered a strong performance, with quarterback Cam Ward throwing for three touchdowns in his final game while running back Damien Martinez amassed a career-high 179 rushing yards. Nevertheless, the Hurricanes faced disappointment, as this loss marked their sixth consecutive bowl defeat and a challenging end to the season with three of their final four games decided by a mere 10 points.
The game featured a high-paced first half, with both teams trading touchdowns continuously. By halftime, the score was 31-28 in favor of Miami, but Iowa State took control in the second half, ultimately securing their victory with a 15-play, 84-yard drive culminating in Becht’s game-winning touchdown.
As the Cyclones bask in their historic achievement, they prepare to take on next season with renewed confidence and momentum. Meanwhile, Miami aims to regroup and build on their hard-fought performance as they set their sights on the 2025 season, opening against a formidable opponent in Notre Dame.
The remarkable journey of Iowa State this season showcases the incredible potential within college football, emphasizing that persistence and teamwork ultimately lead to success. Both teams will certainly look to leverage their experiences as they head into their future matchups, with Iowa State’s record-setting season providing a hopeful outlook for fans and players alike.