Kansas State Misses Viral Pop-Tarts Bowl Buzz By One Season
Last season Kansas State quarterback Avery Johnson barely drew a blip of attention after winning MVP of the Pop-Tarts Bowl in Orlando.
A year later, Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht is an Internet sensation and likely the subject of plenty viral memes. That's because the bowl named after a breakfast pastry is now arguably one of the most popular of the postseason.
The pop tart bowl is everything pic.twitter.com/EPuzAIiSXF
— MyBookie - Bet With The Best (@MyBookie) December 28, 2024
The Cyclones held on for a 42-41 victory against the Miami Hurricanes at Camping World Stadium to become the second straight Big 12 team to win the game. Last year Kansas State defeated North Carolina State without the fanfare.
It’s possible no brand in history has gotten more out of a bowl sponsorship. https://t.co/IoGmnrgKLT
— Stewart Mandel (@slmandel) December 28, 2024
The bowl had 11 different names since it started in 1990 but was named Pop-Tarts before the 2023 season. The Wildcats and Wolfpack were the first teams to play under the new name. It appears the sponsor created a new marketing strategy to reach a bigger audience.
Mouth Heaven gained another angel! 💙 #PopTartsBowl pic.twitter.com/0hkfozfgjU
— Pop-Tarts Bowl (@PopTartsBowl) December 29, 2024
This year, Pop-Tarts mascots were introduced, different flavors and all. They included strawberry, brown sugar, etc. Fans in attendance were treated to a Pop-Tarts bar once they arrived at the stadium. The culmination was Becht being awarded a larger than life Pop-Tart after getting his MVP trophy. The mascot was lowered into a huge toaster only to come out as an edible treat.
The Wildcats are content with their performance in the Rate Bowl in Phoenix but would have received much more love in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Shandel Richardson is the publisher of Kansas State Wildcats On SI. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com
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