ORLANDO, Fla. -- In a thrilling finale to his college career, Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward etched his name in the NCAA record books during the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday.

Ward threw the 156th touchdown pass of his impressive career, connecting with Jacolby George for a 4-yard score with just over four minutes left in the first quarter. This remarkable achievement makes Ward the all-time leader in touchdown passes for NCAA Division I players, surpassing the previous record of 155 held by Houston's Case Keenum, who played from 2007 to 2011.

With this historic moment, Ward solidified his legacy as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NCAA history.

But his record may not stand for long; Oregon's Dillon Gabriel is hot on his heels with 153 touchdown passes and has the potential to surpass Ward if his team reaches the College Football Playoff. Gabriel's career at UCF, Oklahoma, and now Oregon spans six seasons, putting him in a prime position to challenge Ward’s newly set record.

Ward’s accolades don’t stop at touchdowns.

Prior to the Pop-Tarts Bowl, he had amassed a staggering 17,999 passing yards—placing him third on the all-time NCAA list for passing yards. He achieved this lofty total during his time at three different schools: Incarnate Word (6,908 yards), Washington State (6,968 yards), and Miami (4,123 yards). Only Case Keenum with 19,217 yards and Dillon Gabriel with 18,423 yards have more.

Furthermore, the all-division NCAA record for touchdown passes is still held by John Matocha of Colorado School of Mines.

Matocha threw for 162 touchdowns from 2019 to 2023. Other notable quarterbacks include Tyson Bagent from Shepherd with 159 touchdowns and Braxton Plunk from Mount Union, who recorded 158. As it stands, Ward's first touchdown in the Pop-Tarts Bowl alone places him sixth on the all-time list, showcasing his incredible skill and determination over his collegiate career.

As the football world turns its eyes to the future, one thing is certain: Cam Ward has left an indelible mark on college football history.

Fans eagerly await to see who will rise to the challenge of breaking his record. Will Gabriel emerge as the next record-holder? Only time will tell!