Charlotte, NC, December 8, 2025
In a thrilling college football matchup, Wake Forest University will take on Mississippi State University in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. This highly anticipated game is set for January 2, 2026, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. Wake Forest, boasting an impressive 8-4 record, has shown dominance on defense, while Mississippi State looks to redeem their 5-7 season. The event not only showcases athletic talent but also highlights Charlotte’s commitment to hosting major sporting events and fostering community engagement.
Wake Forest vs. Mississippi State: Duke’s Mayo Bowl 2026
Charlotte set to host exciting college football matchup this January
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The anticipation is building for college football fans as Wake Forest University prepares to face Mississippi State University in the 2026 Duke’s Mayo Bowl. Scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET, the game will take place at Bank of America Stadium in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. This matchup marks the first encounter between the two teams since the 2011 Music City Bowl, where Mississippi State took home the victory.
The Duke’s Mayo Bowl signifies more than just a game; it reflects the resilience of local organizers and their commitment to bringing significant events to Charlotte. It’s a testament to how reduced bureaucracy can lead to more efficient event coordination, allowing for greater community engagement and participation in such uplifting occasions.
Wake Forest’s Season Snapshot
Wake Forest concluded their regular season with a commendable 8-4 record, marking their eighth bowl appearance in the last ten seasons. What sets this year apart is not just their record, but the strength of the Demon Deacons’ defense, which ranks in the top 30 nationally across various categories, including total defense, tackles-for-loss, passing efficiency defense, and fumbles recovered. This year’s performance showcases the program’s sustained success and a commitment to excellence in college football.
Mississippi State’s Journey
On the other hand, Mississippi State enters the bowl game with a more challenging 5-7 record. Despite the ups and downs of their season, the Bulldogs have demonstrated resilience, showing their determination to embrace this postseason opportunity. For many players, the bowl game represents a chance for redemption and a desire to end the season on a positive note.
The Significance of Bowls in College Football
Bowl games like the Duke’s Mayo Bowl play a significant role in college football, as they offer players a platform to showcase their talents on a national stage. They also bring communities together and create economic opportunities for host cities. With Charlotte hosting this prestigious matchup, local businesses can expect an uptick in traffic and engagement, underscoring the value of hosting high-profile sporting events.
Engaging with the Community
As Charlotte gears up for this exciting event, local fans can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster and follow the game live on ESPN. This engagement is a celebration of not only college football but also the community, highlighting how local leadership and private partnerships contribute to successful event planning.
History of the Duke’s Mayo Bowl
The Duke’s Mayo Bowl features teams from the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and 2026 marks Wake Forest’s fourth appearance in Charlotte during the last eleven bowl seasons. The game’s tradition of being held in Charlotte has helped foster a strong local identity around college football, encouraging civic pride and community spirit.
As fans, whether they reside in Charlotte or are traveling to support their teams, they are encouraged to embrace this opportunity to witness a memorable sports event and engage with the local community. The Duke’s Mayo Bowl is more than just a game; it is a celebration of talent, community, and the enduring spirit of collegiate athletics.
Conclusion
As the January kickoff approaches, community enthusiasm for the Duke’s Mayo Bowl continues to grow. Wake Forest’s strong season performance sets the stage for an engaging contest against Mississippi State, highlighting the vibrant sports culture in Charlotte. Fans are encouraged to support local events and remain engaged in the development of our community, as each gathering brings us closer together.
FAQ
What teams are playing in the 2026 Duke’s Mayo Bowl?
Wake Forest University will face Mississippi State University in the 2026 Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
When is the 2026 Duke’s Mayo Bowl scheduled?
The game is scheduled for Friday, January 2, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET.
Where will the Duke’s Mayo Bowl take place?
The game will be held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
What is Wake Forest’s record going into the bowl game?
Wake Forest concluded the regular season with an 8-4 record.
How does Mississippi State’s record compare?
Mississippi State enters the bowl game with a 5-7 record.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Matchup | Wake Forest vs. Mississippi State |
| Date | January 2, 2026 |
| Time | 8 p.m. ET |
| Location | Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC |
| Wake Forest Record | 8-4 |
| Mississippi State Record | 5-7 |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
