Iowa State Wins Thrilling Pop-Tarts Bowl in Historic 11th Victory

The Cyclones edged out Miami 42–41 in a back-and-forth game, marking their first-ever 11-win season and showcasing college football's evolving postseason spectacle.

Iowa State Cyclones defeated the Miami Hurricanes 42–41 in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, securing their first 11-win season in the program’s 134-year history.
The game featured a dramatic final-minute touchdown by Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht, who also earned MVP honors with four total touchdowns.
Miami quarterback Cam Ward set an all-time NCAA record with 158 career touchdown passes before exiting the game at halftime to avoid injury ahead of the NFL Draft.
The Pop-Tarts Bowl continued its viral tradition with edible mascots, including a cinnamon roll mascot 'sacrificed' in a postgame celebration, adding a quirky layer to the event's growing popularity.
This year’s bowl season has delivered numerous close games, highlighting the enduring appeal of non-Playoff matchups in college football's evolving postseason landscape.