I think the system is to blame. Money has ruined athletics. The NFL can easily fix this issue. Setting a competition standard for all eligible prospects would kill this in a heartbeat.

But why should Cam Ward go all out in a meaningless bowl game? What incentive does he have?

One might think to represent the school but I believe he’s portal transfer.

Some thoughts to consider:

I assume he has no true deep rooted loyalty to the school. Like Rudy did for Notre Dame.

Modern athletes just want to be paid competition takes a back seat.

He draws attention to himself by doing this both positive and negative.