Ashford Shines as Wake Forest Overcomes Mississippi State in duke’s Mayo Bowl Thriller
Wake Forest capped off a prosperous season with a decisive 43-29 victory over Mississippi State in Friday night’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl, showcasing a dominant performance by quarterback Robby Ashford. Ashford, rightfully named MVP, orchestrated a balanced attack, throwing for 303 yards and three touchdowns while adding two rushing scores of his own. This win marks only the fourth time in program history wake Forest has secured nine or more wins in a single season.
The Demon Deacons’ offense proved too potent for the Bulldogs, consistently finding seams in the Mississippi State defense. Ashford completed 20 of 33 passes,effectively distributing the ball to a variety of targets. He also demonstrated his dual-threat ability, gaining 50 yards on 14 carries.
Ty Clark III emerged as a key contributor, racking up 164 all-purpose yards (91 rushing, 73 receiving) and a touchdown. Kamrean Johnson and Jack Foley also found the endzone through the air, while Koredell Bartley electrified the crowd with a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Mississippi State battled valiantly, but ultimately fell short despite a late-game surge. Quarterback Kamario Taylor, stepping in for the NFL-bound Blake Shapen, completed 13 of 22 passes for 241 yards and a touchdown, adding another score with his legs. However,a potentially serious left lower-leg injury forced Taylor to be carted off the field with under two minutes remaining.
Sanfrisco Magee provided a luminous spot for the Bulldogs with a touchdown reception,and Kyle Ferrie contributed four field goals. Mississippi State’s bowl invitation itself was a product of unusual circumstances, stemming from several teams declining bids due to various factors, including players opting out for the NFL Draft.
The Bulldogs mounted a spirited comeback in the fourth quarter, narrowing the deficit to just three points. Taylor’s 1-yard touchdown run and subsequent two-point conversion pass to seydou Traore ignited the rally. Magee then hauled in a 42-yard touchdown pass, bringing Mississippi State within striking distance.
Wake Forest responded with crucial scores down the stretch. ashford’s 1-yard touchdown run extended the led, though a blocked extra point and subsequent 86-yard defensive two-point conversion by Kelley Jones kept the game within reach. Ultimately, a 62-yard touchdown pass from Ashford to Clark sealed the victory, capitalizing on a broken play and a gaping hole in the Bulldogs’ defense.
The Demon Deacons established control early in the third quarter with a swift 75-yard drive culminating in a 64-yard touchdown pass from Ashford to Foley.Ashford then added a two-point conversion run, extending the lead to 23-9. He later added another rushing touchdown, further solidifying Wake Forest’s advantage.
Bartley’s stunning kickoff return opened the scoring for Wake Forest. He fielded the kick at the goal line and raced untouched for a 100-yard touchdown, followed by a successful two-point conversion. This early momentum set the tone for the Demon Deacons’ dominant performance.
This game showcased the exciting future of Wake Forest football and highlighted the challenges facing Mississippi State as they navigate a period of transition.
Source: Field Level Media
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