Miami’s upcoming appearance in the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Iowa State on December 28 is significant despite falling short of the College Football Playoff (CFP). The Hurricanes, who finished the regular season 10-2, view this bowl game as an essential opportunity to solidify their progress under head coach Mario Cristobal and work toward long-term program goals.
One of the major achievements within reach for Miami is securing their first 11-win season in over two decades. This milestone would mark significant progress for the program and serve as a testament to Cristobal’s impact in his tenure. Additionally, a win in Orlando would snap Miami’s five-game bowl losing streak, providing much-needed postseason momentum.
Beyond the immediate stakes, the Pop-Tarts Bowl offers developmental benefits for Miami’s younger players. Bowl season allows teams to hold additional practices, which are crucial for player growth and preparation for the upcoming season. These sessions enable underclassmen to take on bigger roles and refine their skills in a competitive yet lower-pressure environment. For Cristobal, this is an invaluable period for building depth and improving the team’s performance in future campaigns.
The matchup against Iowa State also carries intrigue, as the Cyclones share a 10-3 record and narrowly missed out on the CFP themselves after losing in the Big 12 Championship. Both teams are highly motivated, with Iowa State aiming for an 11-win season and Miami seeking redemption after missing its CFP goals. This makes the game a competitive and high-profile event within the non-CFP bowl lineup.
For Miami, the game’s setting in Orlando also enhances recruiting efforts. Central Florida is a key recruiting region, and a strong showing in the Pop-Tarts Bowl could help solidify relationships with local high school prospects. In addition, the national spotlight provided by a major bowl game strengthens Miami’s brand as a program on the rise.
While missing out on a CFP spot is disappointing, Miami’s Pop-Tarts Bowl appearance underscores the program’s growth and potential. With strategic benefits both on and off the field, this game serves as a stepping stone for greater success in the seasons ahead.
