The Pop-Tarts Bowl produced one of the most bizarre storylines of the college football season, and it centered around Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward. Ward started the game strong, lighting up Iowa State’s defense in the first half, but the second half came and went, and the Heisman finalist was nowhere to be seen.
Speculation ran rampant. Critics accused him of abandoning the game, while others questioned Miami’s handling of the situation. Now, with the dust settling, one of Ward’s confidants has stepped in to clarify what really happened and how head coach Mario Cristobal was the puppeteer behind this whole controversy.
What is the Truth Behind the Pop-Tarts Bowl Drama Surrounding Cam Ward?
Ward entered the Pop-Tarts Bowl under immense scrutiny, as many questioned why he was even playing in a non-playoff game when his NFL future was at stake. He silenced critics early, throwing for 190 yards and three touchdowns, giving Miami a 31-28 halftime lead.
Then came the shocker — Ward didn’t return for the second half, paving the way for backup Emory Williams, who struggled as Miami ended up falling 42-41.
With rumors at an all-time high, Ward’s confidant, Alec Griffen Roth, stepped forward to set the record straight in a recent interview. Roth revealed that Ward’s playing time was a pre-planned decision between him and the coaching staff.
CBS Sports’ Chris Hummer corroborated this, stating that Ward was only supposed to play the first quarter to a half before handing over the reins to Williams. Cristobal firmly dismissed claims that Ward had quit, calling the accusations completely baseless.
Ward’s 2025 NFL Outlook
Despite the Pop-Tarts Bowl drama, Ward’s stock for the 2025 NFL Draft remains sky-high. After transferring from Washington State to Miami, Ward showcased his elite arm talent, throwing for 4,313 yards and 39 touchdowns in 2024.
MORE READING: 2025 NFL Draft Ultimate Top 300 Big Board
While critics note his tendency to make risky throws, his playmaking ability has put him in the conversation for the first overall pick. NFL Mock Draft Database currently ranks him as the top overall prospect, while many other analysts expect him to land in the top five.
Ward’s potential landing spot could be a crucial factor in his development. While teams like the Tennessee Titans have been marked as a possible destination, Ward’s skill set ensures that he will get deal offers from many teams. Despite the controversy surrounding his final college game, his trajectory remains firmly pointed toward NFL stardom.
College Football Network has you covered with the latest from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC, and every Group of Five conference and FBS Independent program.
