UPDATE: The stage is set for the urgent showdown between the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Mississippi State Bulldogs in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl tonight, January 2, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. With kickoff just hours away, both teams are eager to end their seasons on a high note.
The Duke’s Mayo Bowl promises to be a thrilling finale to the non-playoff bowl slate, featuring a Wake Forest squad that has faced significant challenges. The Demon Deacons are set to compete without their standout players: defensive tackle Mateen Ibirogba, who has entered the transfer portal, and running back Demond Claiborne, who scored 10 touchdowns this season. This drastic absence raises questions about Wake Forest’s ability to maintain offensive momentum, especially as they ranked just 91st in the nation for offensive efficiency.
On the other hand, the Mississippi State Bulldogs enter the game with a 5-7 record, which has often overshadowed their strong performances. Despite their record, they were competitive, losing in overtime to both Tennessee and Texas, as well as a heartbreaking last-second loss to Florida. Their offense, though underrated, ranked 54th in success rate and 24th in points per quality drive, positioning them as a formidable opponent tonight.
As Mississippi State’s offense gears up, all eyes will be on their quarterback, who is coming off a breakout performance against Mississippi, where he threw for 178 yards and rushed for 173 yards with two touchdowns. The Bulldogs’ ground game could exploit Wake Forest’s weakened defense, especially with the Deacons missing key players.
What’s at stake? The winner of this bowl game will not only secure bragging rights but also a memorable conclusion to their season. Mississippi State, having been undervalued throughout the season, aims to prove their worth against a Wake Forest team struggling with injuries.
Analysts predict that with Wake Forest’s offensive struggles exacerbated by the absence of Claiborne, the Bulldogs are likely to cover the spread. The Deacons have averaged just 25.5 points per game against FBS opponents, and without their key contributors, it’s hard to envision them being productive on offense.
Fans and bettors alike are keenly watching this matchup unfold, eager to see how both teams adapt to their current rosters. The urgency of tonight’s game is palpable, and the implications of the outcome will resonate well beyond the field.
Stay tuned for live updates and insights as the Duke’s Mayo Bowl kicks off at 7:00 PM ET. This is more than just a game; it’s a chance for redemption for Mississippi State and a test of resilience for Wake Forest. Share your thoughts on the game as it unfolds!
