The game's naming rights sponsor was the Russell Athletic uniform company.
[2] The game featured the North Carolina Tar Heels against the Baylor Bears.
After finishing their season 11–2, the Tar Heels accepted their invitation to play in the game.
After finishing their season 9–3, the Bears accepted their invitation to play in the game.
[4] The Bears set an all-time bowl game record with 645 total rushing yards.