Miami and Iowa State Set to Clash in the Pop Tarts Bowl

On a  Sunday afternoon, Brett McMurphy of the Action Network broke the news that Miami will square off against Iowa State in this year’s Pop Tarts Bowl. This exciting matchup is set to take place on December 28th at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. Shortly after McMurphy’s announcement, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) officially confirmed the news, solidifying what promises to be a thrilling postseason contest.

Miami, which finished its regular season with a 10-2 record, narrowly missed out on the ACC Championship game after suffering late-season losses to Georgia Tech and Syracuse. Despite their strong overall performance throughout the season, these two setbacks proved costly for the Hurricanes, dashing their hopes for a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP).

Meanwhile, Iowa State enters the Pop Tarts Bowl with a 10-3 record after a bitterly disappointing loss in the Big 12 Championship game. The Cyclones were defeated decisively by Arizona State, a result that eliminated their chances of competing in the CFP. Similar to Miami, Iowa State began the season with high expectations and aspirations to be in the national championship conversation, making this bowl game feel like a consolation prize rather than a grand finale.

For both programs, the Pop Tarts Bowl is a bittersweet destination. Miami and Iowa State had shown glimpses of greatness this season and were both considered strong contenders for the playoff. However, costly late-season performances left both teams falling short of their ultimate goals. Nevertheless, this bowl game offers an opportunity for redemption and a chance to end the season on a high note.

Fans from both sides are gearing up for what could be one of the most compelling matchups of the postseason. The Hurricanes will look to showcase their explosive offense and resilient defense that carried them to ten victories this year, while the Cyclones aim to rebound from their championship loss and prove they are among the elite in college football.

The Pop Tarts Bowl, one of the more unique events in the bowl season, is known not only for its quirky name but also for providing entertaining and competitive matchups. This year’s edition is shaping up to be no different. Both Miami and Iowa State will be eager to prove their mettle and cap their seasons with a statement win.

Mark your calendars for December 28th as these two powerhouse programs collide in Orlando. The game promises to deliver excitement, intensity, and plenty of fireworks. Stay tuned for more coverage as we get closer to kickoff.

Go Canes!