This was the 20th meeting between the programs; Kentucky entered the game leading the all-time series, 11–6–2.
The Hokies were 1–1 against ranked FBS teams, defeating Wake Forest and losing to Notre Dame.
They finished in the three-way tie for fourth place in the SEC's East Division.
The Wildcats lost to both ranked FBS teams that they played, Florida and Georgia.
at Bank of America Stadium • Charlotte, North Carolina Pound sign (#) denotes national championship game.