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Cam Ward Sets NCAA Record, Sits Out Second Half as Miami Falls 42-41 to Iowa State

Dec 28, 2024, 11:29 PM

Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward set the NCAA Division I record for career touchdown passes with his 156th touchdown during the first quarter of the Pop-Tarts Bowl against Iowa State on December 28, 2024. The record-breaking 4-yard pass to Jacolby George came with 4:12 remaining in the first quarter. Ward, a former zero-star recruit who accumulated over 18,000 career passing yards and 158 touchdown passes across stints at Incarnate Word, Washington State, and Miami, surpassed the previous record held by Case Keenum. Despite leading 31-14 at halftime with Ward throwing for 190 yards and three touchdowns, Miami ultimately lost 42-41 after Ward elected not to play in the second half. Emory Williams replaced him, and the Hurricanes scored only 10 points without Ward. Head coach Mario Cristobal declined to disclose why Ward only played one half, stating personnel decisions are private. Ward was not made available to the media postgame. The decision drew both criticism and support; some commentators questioned his commitment, while others defended his choice to prioritize his future.