UPDATE: The highly anticipated matchup between Wake Forest and Mississippi State in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl is set for January 2 in Charlotte. As excitement builds, experts are making critical predictions that could impact betting decisions for fans and bettors alike.
With just hours to go before kickoff, Mississippi State enters the game with a 5-7 record, having faced tough losses this season, including nail-biters against Tennessee and Florida. Meanwhile, Wake Forest is looking to cap off a season marred by challenges, notably missing key players on both sides of the ball.
The stakes are high as both teams bring their unique strengths to the field. Mississippi State will rely on a surprising offensive efficiency, ranking 24th in points per quality drive. However, they face a formidable Wake Forest defense that has ranked 21st in EPA this season, despite their offensive struggles.
Unfortunately for the Demon Deacons, they will be without their standout running back, Demond Claiborne, who has been pivotal this season, scoring 10 touchdowns and leading a struggling offense that averaged just 25.5 points per game against FBS opponents. Adding to their woes, defensive tackle Mateen Ibirogba has entered the transfer portal, leaving a significant gap in their defensive lineup.
Experts are weighing in on the implications of these absences, suggesting that Mississippi State could capitalize on Wake Forest’s vulnerabilities. With the Bulldogs boasting an 8-4 record against the spread this season, many believe they are undervalued heading into the game.
As the clock ticks down, fans are eager to see if Mississippi State can cover the spread and prove their worth against a struggling Wake Forest offense. The game kicks off at 8:00 PM ET at Bank of America Stadium, and viewers are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the college football bowl season.
Stay tuned for live updates and expert analysis as the action unfolds in this crucial matchup. Will Wake Forest rise to the occasion, or will Mississippi State assert their dominance? The answer is just moments away!
