Orlando, Fla. (BCSNN) — The 2024 Pop-Tarts Bowl at Camping World Stadium was a thrilling showdown between the No. 18 Iowa State Cyclones and the No. 13 Miami Hurricanes, with Iowa State clinching a dramatic 42-41 victory on December 28th.

The game was a high-scoring affair from the start, with ISU forcing a fumble on Miami's first play and converting it into an early touchdown. The Canes responded with a 21-yard field goal by Andres Borregales, but Iowa State quickly regained the lead with a 32-yard field goal by Kyle Konrardy.

The first half saw both teams trading touchdowns, with Miami leading 31-28 at halftime. In the second half, Iowa State's defense stepped up, forcing Miami to settle for field goals on two long drives. Iowa State's offense, led by Becht, orchestrated a 15-play, 84-yard drive in the final minutes, culminating in the game-winning touchdown.

"Disappointed that we couldn't pull out a victory. These guys have always fought and always competed and this was no exception. ... It's painful. It's as painful as it gets when you don't win. But there's a lot to build on.”

Miami Head Coach Mario Cristobal

Offensive Standouts
Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht was the star of the game, throwing for three touchdown passes and rushing for a game-winning 1-yard touchdown with just 56 seconds left. Becht finished the game with 270 passing yards and was named the game's MVP. Wide receiver Jaylin Noel also made a significant impact, catching a 29-yard pass on a crucial third-and-1 and finishing with seven catches for 123 yards.

Miami offense was led by quarterback Cam Ward, who, despite sitting out the second half, threw for three touchdowns in the first half and finished with three passing touchdowns for the game. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. contributed with a 1-yard touchdown run and 45 rushing yards.

Defensive Standouts
Iowa State defensive back Jontez Williams was a standout, recording two interceptions, including one in the final minutes that sealed the victory. Linebacker Tui Faumuina-Brown also made a significant impact with eight tackles and a sack.

Miami defensive back Alijah Huzzie stood out with seven tackles and a forced fumble, but the Hurricanes' defense struggled to contain Iowa State's late-game drive.

The Wrap-Up
The victory marks Iowa State's first 11-win season in program history and their second Pop-Tarts Bowl win. Miami finishes the season with a 10-3 record, falling just short in a thrilling game.