(BCSNN) - Arkansas State surged early and survived a late push from Missouri State to earn a 34-28 win in the Xbox Bowl on Thursday night at The Ford Center at The Star. The victory gives the Red Wolves (7-6) their sixth FBS bowl win in program history and marks just the second time they’ve posted bowl victories in consecutive seasons.

Senior wide receiver Corey Rucker delivered a record‑setting performance, hauling in six passes for 166 yards and a touchdown to earn Offensive MVP honors. His score was the 27th of his career, breaking the school record previously held by Omar Bayless. Rucker finishes his collegiate career with 4,121 receiving yards, ranking 21st all‑time among FBS receivers.

On the other side of the ball, senior linebacker Kyle Taylor earned Defensive MVP recognition after recording 10 tackles, including four solo stops, to anchor a defense that produced 14 tackles for loss and eight sacks — one shy of its season high. The Red Wolves also recovered a fumble and a muffed punt, generating key momentum swings throughout the night.

Quarterback Jaylen Raynor completed 17 of 31 passes for 288 yards and three touchdowns, while Kenyon Clay led the ground game with 53 yards on 11 carries. Devin Spencer added the team’s lone rushing touchdown.

Arkansas State built a first‑half cushion and leaned on its defense late as Missouri State (7-6) mounted a rally behind its balanced attack. But the Red Wolves’ pressure up front and timely stops preserved the win, closing the season with a statement performance and another postseason trophy