Entering the contest, Arkansas State had triumphed in three consecutive road games for the first time since 2015. Notably, the Red Wolves were the sole team in the nation to start the season 1-4 and still secure a spot in a bowl game within the Sun Belt Conference. The action kicked off with Missouri State's opening drive fizzling out, leading to an early punt that allowed Arkansas State to seize control. Starting from their own 40-yard line, the Red Wolves wasted no time, scoring a rapid touchdown in just six plays, taking a 7-0 lead with 10:59 remaining in the first quarter. Although quarterback Jacob Clark delivered some impressive plays, including tough runs that carried him to the Arkansas State 43-yard line, Missouri State's efforts were halted by a crucial sack that forced another punt. Capitalizing on the momentum, Arkansas State extended their lead to 14-0 before Clark orchestrated a brilliant 36-yard touchdown connection with wide receiver Dash Luke, narrowing the score to 14-7 as the quarter wound down. As the first quarter concluded, tensions mounted with Arkansas State eager to maintain their momentum. By halftime, Arkansas State had established a commanding 24-7 lead, thanks to an early second-half field goal and a 4-yard touchdown reception by sophomore Chauncy Cobb. Unfortunately for Missouri State, they struggled to find the end zone until the fourth quarter, when Ramone Green Jr. caught a 15-yard touchdown pass, followed by an unanswered 47-yard touchdown from Dash Luke that narrowed the score to 34-28 late in the fourth quarter. Riding this surge of momentum, Missouri State added another touchdown with 1:54 remaining in the game, as J Robinson made a 16-yard touchdown reception, prompting an onside kick attempt that was recovered by Arkansas State, sealing the game at 34-28 and granting the Red Wolves their first-ever Xbox Bowl victory. The offensive MVP was receiver Corey Rucker, who recorded six receptions for 166 yards and a touchdown, while Kyle Taylor earned the defensive MVP honor for Arkansas State, boasting 10 tackles—four of which were solo—alongside one deflected pass, as he pressured the Bears throughout. Arkansas State looks to carry this momentum into 2026, solidifying their presence in the Sun Belt Conference during the College Football Playoff era.