Iowa State Tops Miami 42-41 in Pop-Tarts Bowl

No. 18 Iowa State rallied from a 10-point deficit in the second half to defeat No. 15 Miami 42-41 in the Pop-Tarts Bowl, marking the Cyclones' best season with an 11-3 record. Quarterback Rocco Becht led the charge, completing 22 of 35 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns, including a game-winning 1-yard touchdown run with 56 seconds left. Iowa State set school records for the most points in a bowl game and secured their first bowl victory since 2020. Miami's Cam Ward threw three touchdown passes in the first half, but the Hurricanes struggled in the second half, ultimately losing their sixth consecutive bowl game. This thrilling contest featured a high-scoring first half, with both teams combining for 59 points and eight consecutive touchdown drives. The Cyclones' victory highlights their remarkable season, showcasing multiple late-game comebacks.