Wake Forest strikes early in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl against Mississippi State, taking an 8-3 lead in the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The Demon Deacons have established early momentum in their bowl matchup.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Wake Forest (8-4) leads Mississippi State (5-7) 8-3 early in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl
- Game played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte on January 2, 2026
- Jake Dickert earned a bowl contract extension after his successful first season at Wake Forest
- Robby Ashford leads the Demon Deacons offense with 2,169 passing yards in 2025
Early Momentum Shifts to Wake Forest
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The Demon Deacons wasted little time establishing field position in this Duke’s Mayo Bowl matchup. Wake Forest’s early offensive drives have produced results, with the team moving methodically down the field against a Mississippi State defense that finished 5-7 this season.
Mississippi State countered with a field goal to stay in the game. The Bulldogs struggled throughout the regular season but are looking to finish on a positive note in this postseason bowl opportunity.
Dickert’s Debut Season Bears Fruit in Charlotte
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Jake Dickert, the 33rd head coach in Wake Forest football history, was signed to a long-term contract extension in December after finishing his inaugural season with an impressive 8-4 record. The Demon Deacons are making their eighth bowl appearance in the last 10 seasons.
Dickert’s offensive approach has emphasized quick strikes and efficient execution. His hiring from Washington State, where he compiled a 23-20 record, marked a turning point for the program. Early in this Duke’s Mayo Bowl game, his system appears sharp.
Key Statistical Matchup
| Key Players | Wake Forest | Mississippi State |
| Starting QB | Robby Ashford (2,169 YDS) | Blake Shapen (2,433 YDS) |
| Leading RB | Demond Claiborne (907 YDS) | Fluff Bothwell (639 YDS) |
| Team Record | 8-4 (4-4 ACC) | 5-7 (1-7 SEC) |
| Recent Form | Lost to Duke 49-32 | Lost to Ole Miss 38-19 |
Ashford’s Leadership Sets Tone in Bowl Game
Robby Ashford, a South Carolina transfer who won the starting job for Wake Forest this season, has guided the Demon Deacons to their early lead. The quarterback completed the 2025 regular season with 2,169 passing yards, 9 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 12 games.
Ashford’s arm strength and mobility have proven valuable in Dickert’s system. Against Mississippi State’s defense, he has found his rhythm early, connecting with receivers on key plays to extend drives and put points on the board for the Demon Deacons.
Can Mississippi State Rally in Second Half?
Mississippi State’s 5-7 record suggests the Bulldogs struggled with consistency throughout the 2025 season. A promising win against Arkansas (38-35) stands out in their resume, but losses to top SEC competition have defined their campaign. This bowl game represents a final chance to finish the season strong.
“Some people see obstacles, [but] I see opportunity. That’s what I think Wake Forest represented to me. I aligned with the people, [and] my family is more than willing to make the sacrifice to come here to chase our dreams.”
— Jake Dickert, Wake Forest Head Coach
Sources
- ESPN – Live game coverage and team statistics
- Wake Forest Athletics – Official program information and coaching details
- USA Today – Duke’s Mayo Bowl preview and attendance updates
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.