By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo: The Des Moines Register
Miami Hurricanes squandered a 10-point lead to the Iowa State Cyclones in Saturday’s Pop-Tarts Bowl. The Cyclones won 42-41
Hurricanes quarterback played only the first half of the game. Ward added another accomplishment by having the most touchdown passes of any quarterback at the top two levels of college football.
Ward surpassed Case Keenan for the most touchdowns of any player in Division 1 history. It was Ward’s 37th touchdown of the season.
Despite this accomplishment, Ward’s decision not to play in the second half was controversial. Whether it was Ward’s or the coach’s decision, it is not a good look.
Ward will attend the NFL Draft, but his team needed him in the second half. Emory Williams took over for the quarterback position but didn’t shine bright under the lights.
The Hurricanes defense didn’t show up once again. The secondary and defensive lineman missed many tackles and sacks and allowed the Clyclones receivers to get too many touches. It was a lousy performance from the defense.
Cyclones quarterback Rocco Becht completed 22 36 passes for 270 yards and three touchdowns.
Hurricanes running back Damien Martinez had a terrific postseason performance. He rushed for a career-high 179 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown run.
Tight end Elijah Arroyo, wide receiver Jacolby George, and wide receiver Jojo Trader each had touchdown receptions.
Hurricanes failed to reach 11 wins. They finish the season with a 10-3 record.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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