Iowa State vs. Miami Redemption and Rebound in the Pop-Tarts Bowl
Pop-Tarts Bowl Preview: Iowa State Cyclones vs. Miami Hurricanes A Crucial Showdown to End 2024
The 2024 college football bowl season kicks off with an intriguing showdown in the Sunshine State as the #18 Iowa State Cyclones face off against the #13 Miami Hurricanes in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday afternoon. Both teams enter this matchup with something to prove, looking to close their seasons with a statement victory. Iowa State enters with a bitter taste after a lopsided defeat in the Big 12 Championship, while Miami comes in hoping to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Syracuse that dashed their ACC Championship hopes.
This will be the first-ever meeting between these two programs as FBS opponents, adding another layer of excitement to an already high-stakes bowl game. With both teams boasting explosive offenses and defensive challenges, this game promises to deliver plenty of action and drama.
Iowa State Cyclones: Seeking Redemption After Big 12 Loss
Iowa State’s season took a sharp turn in the Big 12 Championship Game when they were dominated by #15 Arizona State, losing 45-19 in a game where they were favored by 1.5 points. Despite being down just 10-7 after the first quarter, the Cyclones were unable to stop Arizona State’s offensive surge, giving up 35 unanswered points. The Cyclones, who entered the game 10-2 overall and ranked 18th in the country, were outgained 467-341 in total offense, and their three turnovers played a pivotal role in the defeat.
For the season, Iowa State has been strong offensively, ranking 38th in passing offense (254.6 yards per game) and 69th in rushing offense (151.7 yards per game). Rocco Becht, the team’s starting quarterback, has passed for 3,235 yards with 22 touchdowns, though he has also thrown 9 interceptions. The Cyclones have a potent ground attack featuring Carson Hansen (670 yards, 11 touchdowns), Abu Sama III (574 yards, 2 touchdowns), and Jaylon Jackson (388 yards, 2 touchdowns), though Jackson is facing a likely suspension due to off-field issues.
In terms of receiving, Jayden Higgins (1,183 yards, 9 touchdowns) and Jaylin Noel (1,077 yards, 7 touchdowns) are Becht’s primary targets, with Benjamin Brahmer and Gabe Burkle offering additional depth. Defensively, Iowa State is ranked 33rd in scoring defense, allowing just 21.5 points per game, but they will need to step up to contain Miami’s explosive offense.
Iowa State is looking to rebound from their disappointing championship defeat and end the season on a high note in what will be their first-ever meeting with Miami in the postseason.
Miami Hurricanes: Rebounding from a Missed ACC Championship Bid
Miami’s 2024 season took a crushing blow when they lost to Syracuse 42-38 in their regular season finale, a game in which they were heavily favored. The Hurricanes led 21-0 early, but their offense stalled in the second half, and Syracuse mounted a comeback. Despite holding a slight edge in total offense (503-479) and time of possession (31:10 to 28:50), Miami’s defense faltered in the critical moments. The Hurricanes’ hopes of an ACC Championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff were dashed, leaving them with a 10-2 record and a chance to regroup in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
The Hurricanes boast the nation’s most potent offense, averaging a staggering 44.2 points per game—first in the FBS. They are also 2nd in passing offense, with Cam Ward leading the charge. Ward, who passed for 4,123 yards, has thrown 36 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. The Hurricanes also have a strong running game, ranked 44th in the country, with Damien Martinez (823 yards, 9 touchdowns) as the primary rusher.
In the receiving department, Miami is stacked with talent, including Xavier Restrepo (1,127 yards, 11 touchdowns) and Isaiah Horton (616 yards, 5 touchdowns), though Horton has since entered the transfer portal. Still, Jacolby George (728 yards, 7 touchdowns) and Elijah Arroyo (526 yards, 6 touchdowns) will play major roles in Miami’s high-powered passing attack.
On defense, the Hurricanes have allowed 23.9 points per game, ranking 61st in the country. They will need to shore up their defense in order to handle Iowa State’s dynamic offense. Despite their defensive issues, Miami’s firepower on offense will likely be their biggest advantage in this bowl game.
Conclusion
The Pop-Tarts Bowl promises to be a thrilling clash between two talented teams looking to end their seasons on a high note. While Iowa State’s defense and balanced offense will keep them competitive, Miami’s dynamic playmakers and elite offensive production should give the Hurricanes the upper hand. For both teams, this bowl game is an opportunity to showcase their strengths and finish the season on a positive note as they prepare for the next chapter.
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