Iowa State Coach Gets Honest on Cam Ward Bowl Game Controversy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.R. DeGroote | Last updated Dec 28, 2024 8:36 PM ET

Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell praised Miami quarterback Cam Ward despite the controversy surrounding Ward's decision to sit out the second half of their bowl game matchup.

Ward played the first half, lighting up Campbell's defense for 190 yards and three touchdowns. But Ward opted out of the second half, remaining on the Hurricanes sideline.

Miami held the lead late but trailed after Iowa State punched in a score with less than a minute left and took a 42-41 lead on the extra point. Emory Williams, who entered for Ward, tossed an interception on a last-gasp Hail Mary to seal the win for the Cyclones.

Miami head coach Mario Cristobal declined to say why Ward exited the game at the half.

"We make [personnel decisions] in private and keep them in private," Cristobal said in his post-game press conference. "I know he was trying his best while he was in there."

Campbell had no problem with Ward's move and praised the Heisman finalist for what he's done this year at Miami.

"[His career] ends a half early for him. What that guy has stood for is selfless," Campbell said. "He's one of the great leaders of that program."

Campbell probably wasn't too upset to see Ward on the sideline. The victory locked up the first-ever 11-win season for Iowa State, and he cashed in a $50,000 bonus with the victory in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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