Originally founded as the Blockbuster Bowl, the game debuted in Miami in 1990, making an immediate splash with a marquee matchup between Penn State and Florida State that drew more than 74,000 fans. Despite a strong start, attendance declined over the next decade, putting the game’s future in South Florida in jeopardy.
Recognizing an opportunity to expand Orlando’s role as a college football destination, Florida Citrus Sports Executive Director Chuck Rohe and the organization’s Board of Directors successfully brought the game to Orlando. The inaugural Orlando edition was played as the Tangerine Bowl, honoring the city’s original bowl game legacy.
Once in Orlando, the bowl experienced sustained growth and renewed national relevance. Over time, it recorded eight consecutive years of attendance increases, a record among bowl games. That momentum peaked in 2011, the final game under the Champs Sports Bowl name, when Florida State and Notre Dame played before a sold-out crowd of 68,305 fans.
In the College Football Playoff era, the Pop-Tarts Bowl has continued to rise in the postseason rankings. The game now matches the top available ACC team (including Notre Dame) against the second selection from the Big 12, excluding teams selected for the CFP.
In 2023, Pop-Tarts signed a multi-year title sponsorship agreement with Florida Citrus Sports, ushering in a bold new chapter for the bowl. With a unique blend of competitive college football, fan-first entertainment, and a playful brand identity, the Pop-Tarts Bowl has become one of the most talked-about and anticipated bowl games each postseason.
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