Game Analysis:

The Iowa State Cyclones (10-3) are set to face the Miami Hurricanes (10-2) in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on December 28, 2024, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This marks the first-ever meeting between the two programs. Iowa State’s offense is led by sophomore quarterback Rocco Becht, who has passed for 3,235 yards, 22 touchdowns, and nine interceptions this season, completing 59% of his passes. His primary targets include wide receivers Jayden Higgins, with 87 receptions for 1,183 yards and nine touchdowns, and Jaylin Noel, contributing significantly to the Cyclones’ aerial attack. On the ground, running back Carson Hansen has accumulated 670 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns. Defensively, the Cyclones will need to rebound from their Big 12 Championship loss, where they conceded 45 points, as they prepare to face a high-powered Miami offense.

The Hurricanes boast a prolific offense, ranking first in the FBS for scoring (44.2 points per game) and total offense (538.2 yards per game). Quarterback Cam Ward, a Heisman Trophy finalist, has been exceptional, completing 67.4% of his passes for 4,123 yards, 36 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, along with four rushing touchdowns. His top target, wide receiver Xavier Restrepo, has recorded 69 receptions for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns. Running back Damien Martinez adds balance to the offense with 823 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. Despite their offensive prowess, Miami’s defense has shown vulnerabilities, which Iowa State may look to exploit. The Hurricanes are favored by 3.5 points in this matchup, aiming to secure their first 11-win season since 2003.