Miami football players get in scuffle during Pop-Tarts Bowl

By 
 December 30, 2024

College football fans witnessed a violent spectacle during the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday, and we're not referring to the ceremonial toasting of the sugary mascot. 

In an unfortunate incident, Miami Hurricanes defense linemen Marquise Lightfoot and Simeon Barrow Jr. started punching and shoving each other on the sidelines before their teammates broke up the scuffle.

The fight marred an already dismal post-season for the Hurricanes.

Fight at Pop-Tarts bowl

The Hurricanes have made progress under coach Mario Cristobal, ending 2024 with 10 wins under their belt, but their season didn't end the way they hoped it would.

After a strong start, the Hurricanes came crashing down in the final week. A crushing loss to Syracuse ended their hopes of an ACC Championship and they were soon knocked out of the 12-team playoff.

Saturday's matchup against Iowa State in Orlando gave some hope of redemption, but the Hurricanes lost 42-41.

Their star quarterback, Cam Ward, played only half the game, leaving the Hurricanes with a 31-28 lead that Iowa overcame in the second half.

“There’s a lot of excitement in the form of opportunity for our guys,” Cristobal said before the game. “Our guys love to play football. The chance to play one more time with this special group — this is a special group of guys now. They’ve worked hard to really change the trajectory of the University of Miami, and they want to continue to elevate the status and the culture at the University of Miami. So certainly a ton to play for."

Pop-Tarts Bowl

Iowa quarterback Rocco Becht scored a one-yard touchdown down with just 56 seconds left, winning the game and the MVP title. It marks the first time Iowa has won 11 games.

The dramatic fight between Miami's players didn't put a damper on the silly spirit of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, which is known for its over-the-top spectacle and has quickly become a fan favorite - featuring edible mascots and a massive toaster prop.

MVP Becht won the right to toast a mascot of his choosing - a cinnamon roll - and then invited his teammates to enjoy the spoils of victory.

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