College football fans are in for a treat as Mississippi State's Bulldogs face off against Wake Forest's Demon Deacons in the anticipated Duke's Mayo Bowl, proving that determination and academic excellence can sometimes trump traditional season performance.

The Bulldogs secured their bowl game invitation through an unusual route, earning a spot despite finishing the regular season with a challenging 5-7 record. Their inclusion came after other programs declined postseason invitations and thanks to their impressive Academic Progress Rate (APR), demonstrating that resilience extends beyond the football field.

Wake Forest enters the matchup with momentum, having won six of their last eight games in the 2025 season. Under first-year head coach Jake Dickert, the Demon Deacons are eager to cap off their campaign with a memorable victory and build positive momentum for the future.

The high-stakes game is scheduled for Friday, January 2nd, with kickoff set for 8 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Football enthusiasts can catch all the action through multiple platforms, including ESPN's national broadcast and streaming options via the ESPN app and Fubo.

For fans preferring radio coverage, SiriusXM offers dedicated broadcasts on channels 84 for Mississippi State and 382 for Wake Forest. New subscribers can even enjoy a four-month free trial, ensuring no one misses this exciting postseason clash.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, the Duke's Mayo Bowl promises an evening of competitive college football that celebrates athletic skill, academic achievement, and the unbreakable spirit of student-athletes.