Miami head coach Mario Cristobal remains tight-lipped regarding quarterback Cam Ward’s absence in the second half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

Although Ward played in the first half, he did not return for the second half during the thrilling 42-41 loss to Iowa State. Following the game, Cristobal expressed a preference for privacy concerning the circumstances of Ward’s absence.

“I think all meetings with players and decisions like that remain private,” Cristobal stated, according to Adam Lichtenstein of the South Florida Sun Sentinel. “I prefer not to answer questions related to that. I know he played his best while he was on the field.”

In the first half, Ward completed 12 of 19 passes for 190 yards and three touchdowns, marking a record for the most touchdown passes in a collegiate career. At halftime, Miami trailed 28-27 before backup Emory Williams took over at quarterback.

Williams had a challenging second half, throwing 5 of 14 for just 26 yards and an interception. However, Miami’s rushing game, led by Damien Martinez and Mark Fletcher Jr., kept the team competitive. Unfortunately for the Hurricanes, this was not enough to secure a victory, and Ward’s presence could have changed the outcome, potentially leading them to an 11-2 season.

Ward is considered a top prospect for the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, likely to be selected early by a team in need of a quarterback. This context may have influenced the decision to limit his playing time in the bowl game to safeguard his health.

Despite the disappointing outcome, Miami wraps up the season with 10 wins and looks ahead, while Ward prepares to embark on the NFL Draft journey.