Cam Ward was the clear team MVP and offensive player of the year. There can be no debate. The potential NFL Draft 1st overall pick in 2025 was the real deal for the Hurricanes in 2024.
Cameron Ward came to Coral Gables. Saw the beautiful University of Miami campus. And kicked some ass. Cam Ward is the clear ‘Canes team MVP and Offensive Player of the Year.
The Miami Hurricanes had their best season since 2017 finishing 10-3 in both seasons. Both teams were coached by former ‘Canes in Mark Richt and Mario Cristobal.
As an FBS quarterback, 2024 marked career highs for Ward in passing yards, completion percentage, touchdowns, QB Rating, and his lowest interceptions (tied with 2023). In his lone season with the Hurricanes Ward threw for 4,313 yards, and tossed 39 TD’s with only seven INT’s.
Ward completed 67.2% of his passes while rushing for four scores and taking his least amount of sacks (22) since his days at FCS Incarnate Word. Cam Ward also finished fourth in Heisman Trophy voting behind Travis Hunter, Ashton Jeanty, and Dillon Gabriel.
When Miami needed a big play Ward was there. The playmaking quarterback led come from behind wins over Cal and Virginia Tech while also winning the “State of Florida” title with wins over the Florida Gators and Florida State Seminoles.
While ‘Player of the Year’ awards typically lean towards statistical dominance, the MVP in my mind is given out to the player the team could not have been without. As valuable as other ‘Canes were in 2024, Ward was the clear most valuable on the field.
Without Ward Miami is a 6-6 team at best. We all watched the second half of the Pop-Tarts Bowl. With Ward the ‘Canes returned to the national spotlight and the Heisman Trophy Award conversation, as well as the College Football Playoff picture. His silly post TD celebration even traveled up to the pro ranks and can be seen in NFL games.
Ward was a one of a kind type of player and the Hurricanes fans have been very grateful to have no.1 behind center for the 2024 season. Ward leaves his college career behind as the leader in passing touchdowns at the Division I level with 178 touchdowns, and first in passing yards and TD’s in a season at Miami.
Cam Ward … receiving touchdown!!?
ESPN x @CanesFootball pic.twitter.com/aGuCkJzdBD
— ACC Football (@ACCFootball) October 27, 2024
My favorite Cam Ward play this season was “Texas to Texas” with the TD reception from TE Elijah Arroyo. Leave yours in the comments!