Get ready for an exciting football recap that will have you on the edge of your seat! The Wake Forest Demon Deacons pulled off an incredible victory over Mississippi State Bulldogs in the Duke's Mayo Bowl, leaving fans in awe of their fourth-quarter comeback.
In a thrilling start, Wake Forest scored right from the opening kickoff, setting the tone for an intense game. The Bulldogs, despite their efforts, finished the 2025-26 season with a record of 5-8, leaving room for improvement.
Mississippi State chose to receive the ball, and the game began with an exciting first play. Kamario Taylor connected with Brenen Thompson for a massive 51-yard gain, putting MSU in a promising position. However, a series of plays led to a field goal attempt, with Kyle Ferrie nailing a 33-yarder to give MSU an early 3-0 lead.
But here's where it gets controversial... Wake Forest responded with a stunning 100-yard touchdown return on the ensuing kickoff, taking an early 8-3 lead. The game was already shaping up to be a back-and-forth battle.
As the first quarter progressed, both teams traded possessions, with Wake Forest's QB Robby Ashford leading his team down the field. The Deacons scored their first touchdown of the game, with Ashford connecting with Kamrean Johnson in the end zone. The score was now 15-6 in favor of Wake Forest.
And this is the part most people miss... the game truly started to heat up in the second quarter. MSU's defense stepped up, forcing Wake Forest to punt. But Wake wasn't done yet; they responded with a touchdown drive of their own, extending their lead to 23-9.
As the half came to a close, MSU managed to narrow the deficit with a field goal, making it 23-12. The game was far from over, and the teams headed into halftime with Wake Forest holding a slight advantage.
The second half kicked off with Wake Forest fair-catching the ball, and they wasted no time, scoring a touchdown on their first drive. Ashford's 2-point conversion run made it 23-9, and the Deacons were rolling.
MSU fought back, with Taylor leading the offense and connecting with Sanfrisco Magee for a crucial touchdown, bringing the score to 30-27. The game was now a nail-biter, with both teams trading scores.
With just over four minutes left in the game, Wake Forest's QB Ashford hit Sawyer Racanelli for a 25-yard gain, setting up a 1-yard touchdown run. However, the extra point was blocked, and State's Kelley Jones returned the deflection for a touchdown, making it 36-29.
But Wake Forest wasn't done yet! On the ensuing drive, Clark took a pass from Ashford to the house, extending their lead to 43-29. With time running out, MSU's final drive ended with a turnover on downs, and Wake Forest kneeled the game out, securing the victory.
This game had it all - thrilling plays, controversial calls, and an incredible comeback. So, what do you think? Was Wake Forest's victory a well-deserved triumph, or did MSU have a chance to turn it around? Let's discuss in the comments and share your thoughts on this exciting football match!
