As had been expected, Kansas State will be Syracuse’s opponent December 30 in the inaugural New Era Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. The Wildcats (7-5) accepted an invitation today.
“We are excited to have the Kansas State Wildcats representing the Big 12 Conference in the inaugural New Era Pinstripe Bowl,” said New York Yankees Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner. “Throughout his life, my father was a huge fan and supporter of college football, and we are proud to continue the storied tradition of the sport in Yankee Stadium. December 30 will be an unforgettable day for players and fans of Kansas State and Syracuse.”
The game will pit two programs on the rise. Syracuse is bowl eligible for the first time since 2004, and Kansas State is in a bowl game for the first time since 2006.
“We couldn’t be more excited to showcase our football program, Kansas State University and our national alumni and fan base in the inaugural New Era Pinstripe Bowl, and I am pleased to accept the invitation on behalf of President Kirk Schulz, Coach Bill Snyder and our entire institution,” Currie said. “The chance for our student-athletes, band members, cheerleaders and fans to experience New York City and compete in one of the most famous venues in all of sports is a once in a lifetime opportunity. We look forward to turning the Big Apple purple.”
The last bowl game played at Yankee Stadium was the Gotham Bowl, Dec. 15, 1962. In that game, Nebraska defeated Miami, 36-34. Football returned to the new Yankee Stadium in November when Notre Dame defeated Army.
The Pinstripe Bowl is scheduled to kickoff at 3:30 p.m. ET and will be televised by ESPN2.