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First-Ever Xbox Bowl Kicks Off December 18 at Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas

College football is leveling up this postseason as Xbox teams with ESPN Events to launch the first-ever Xbox Bowl, set to take place Thursday, December 18 at 9 p.m. ET. The inaugural matchup, airing live on ESPN2, will feature Missouri State (CUSA) in its first bowl appearance squaring off against Arkansas State (Sun Belt), marking a major milestone for both programs and an electrifying new entry into bowl season.

Hosted at the Ford Center at The Star—the world-class home of the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters in Frisco, Texas—the Xbox Bowl brings gaming culture and college football excitement together in a fresh, fan-focused experience.

A New Era for Bowl Season

“We’re proud to welcome Xbox as the title sponsor of this bowl game as their brand aligns perfectly with the excitement and energy of college football,” said Sean Johnson, Executive Director of the Xbox Bowl. “Plus, we couldn’t be more excited to host two great football teams for the first Xbox Bowl.”

The game also marks Xbox’s official debut in the college football space. Fans can expect immersive Xbox-themed activations, unique in-stadium entertainment, and playful surprises that merge the thrill of competition with the joy of gaming.

“The Xbox Bowl is where the thrill of game day meets the joy of play,” said Chris Lee, Vice President of Xbox Marketing. “Whether fans are in the stands, watching at home, or gaming with friends around the world, we’re celebrating passion, community, and the excitement that brings people together.”

Meet the Teams

Arkansas State Red Wolves

Arkansas State arrives with momentum, entering its third straight bowl game and remaining bowl-eligible for the 13th time as an FBS program. Leading the charge is junior quarterback Jaylen Raynor, who continues to rewrite the Red Wolves’ record book. Raynor now holds the program’s single-season completion record with 316 completions—surpassing the mark previously set by Justice Hansen in 2017—and has amassed 49 career touchdown passes, fourth most in school history.

Missouri State Bears

Missouri State has crafted a historic season in its first year competing in Conference USA and the FBS. Finishing 7-5 overall and tying for fourth in the conference, the Bears posted five straight league wins while notching key victories, including a marquee upset over reigning Sun Belt champion Marshall.

Senior quarterback and local Rockwall, Texas legend Jacob Clark headlines the Bears’ high-powered offense. Clark has accumulated more than 7,500 passing yards and 60 career touchdowns, and now aims to guide Missouri State to its first-ever bowl victory.

Xbox Bowl Replaces Bahamas Bowl

The introduction of the Xbox Bowl marks a strategic evolution within ESPN Events’ slate of postseason matchups. Replacing the Bahamas Bowl, the Xbox Bowl now joins a robust lineup of 17 college football bowl games operated by ESPN Events—events known for showcasing emerging NFL talent and creating unforgettable fan experiences.

Tickets & More Information

Fans looking to be part of the inaugural Xbox Bowl can find ticket information at XboxBowl.com.

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