Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward has etched his name into college football history, setting a new Division I record for career passing touchdowns during the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday. Ward surpassed the previous mark of 155 held by former Houston quarterback Case Keenum, achieving a remarkable milestone in his collegiate career.
The record-breaking touchdown pass came in the first quarter when Ward connected with Jacolby George. Shortly after, Ward extended his record with a 22-yard touchdown pass to Joshisa Trader in the second quarter, bringing his career total to 157. This achievement marks a significant moment in Ward's impressive journey through college football.
Ward's record surpasses Keenum, who accumulated his 155 touchdowns over four seasons and 57 games from 2007 to 2011. Keenum had remarkable seasons, leading college football with 44 touchdowns in 2009 and 48 touchdowns in 2011. Ward's performance has been consistent and record breaking in the 2024 season.
Furthermore, Ward's 37 touchdown passes this season make him the current leader in college football, with Colorado's Shedeur Sanders as his closest competitor at 35 touchdowns. This accomplishment comes in Ward's sole season with Miami after transferring from Washington State.
Ward's decision to utilize his final year of eligibility by transferring to Miami, rather than entering the 2024 NFL draft, proved to be a wise move. His performance this season, including a Heisman Trophy finalist nomination, has elevated his NFL draft stock and solidified his position as a potential top-10 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Before his transfer to Miami, Ward played two seasons at Washington State, throwing 48 touchdowns and nearly 7,000 yards and at Incarnate Word where he threw 47 TDs in 2021. This history of high performance highlights Ward's consistent skill and his contribution to college football history.
