A Pop-Tarts trophy mishap during head coaches meetup

Christian Standal

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A Pop-Tarts trophy mishap during head coaches meetup image

The 36th annual Pop-Tarts Bowl is set for kickoff, but the spotlight first turned to a lighthearted moment during the head coaches’ meet-up. Georgia Tech head coach Brent Key and BYU head coach Kalani Sitake took part in the bowl’s popular Pop-Tarts toaster trophy tradition. However, this year’s ceremony did not go as planned when the toaster failed to work and part of the trophy even fell off.

Usually, the two coaches place Pop-Tarts into the toaster-shaped trophy and wait for them to pop up before posing for photos. With the toaster not functioning, Key joked that they would just take a picture anyway. Despite the mishap, the moment still captured the fun and creative spirit that has made the Pop-Tarts Bowl one of the most talked-about games of bowl season.

 

 

History of the Pop-Tarts Bowl

First played in 1990, the Pop-Tarts Bowl has become a familiar and unique part of college football’s postseason. The game was originally created as a second bowl option in the Miami area alongside the Orange Bowl. Over the years, sponsorship changes led to several different names, including the Blockbuster Bowl, Champs Sports Bowl, Russell Athletic Bowl, Camping World Bowl, and Cheez-It Bowl.

In 2001, the game moved permanently to Orlando, Florida, where it has been played at Camping World Stadium ever since. The bowl has hosted many major programs over the years, including Florida State, Alabama, Clemson, Notre Dame, and Miami. Today, the Pop-Tarts Bowl features teams from the ACC and the Big 12, usually matching two strong programs that narrowly missed the College Football Playoff.

Georgia Tech vs. BYU Matchup

This year’s matchup features Georgia Tech and BYU in what should be a competitive game. Georgia Tech enters as the ACC representative, bringing a physical style and disciplined approach under head coach Brent Key. BYU, representing the Big 12, is known for its toughness and strong fundamentals under Kalani Sitake.

Both teams rely on balanced offenses and aggressive defenses, setting the stage for a close contest. With postseason momentum and bragging rights on the line, each side will be looking to finish the season on a high note.

Game-Day Focus

While the toaster trophy may not have worked as planned, the excitement for kickoff is very real. As the Pop-Tarts Bowl reaches its 36th edition, it continues to blend tradition, creativity, and quality football. Now, all attention turns from the pre-game laughs to the field, where Georgia Tech and BYU will battle for bowl victory in one of college football’s most entertaining postseason games.

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Editorial Team