MSU Bears to play Arkansas State in bowl game

Less than a week after securing a spot in a bowl game, Missouri State University has accepted an invitation to play in the inaugural Xbox Bowl against Arkansas State University. 

The Xbox Bowl is scheduled Dec. 18 at the 12,000-seat Ford Center, which is part of The Star in Frisco, Texas, according to a news release. The Star serves as the world headquarters and training facility of the Dallas Cowboys.

"The Xbox Bowl, which replaces the now-defunct Bahamas Bowl, joins the portfolio of 17 postseason college football games owned and operated by ESPN Events, many of which have become launchpads for future NFL talent and unforgettable fan experiences," officials said in the release, noting the game would be nationally televised on ESPN2.

The Bears finished 7-5 overall in their inaugural season with the Conference USA and Division I Football Bowl Subdivision. Arkansas State's record was 6-6.

MSU had petitioned the NCAA for a postseason waiver on behalf of its football program, and multiple Missouri politicians had lobbied for inclusion, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting. MSU was previously ineligible amid a transition to the FBS from the Football Championship Subdivision.