The wait is almost over. College football season comes roaring back to the Queen City this weekend with a primetime battle. The 2024 Duke's Mayo Classic between the Tennessee Volunteers and NC State Wolfpack kicks off Saturday, Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m. at Bank of America Stadium. Tickets are available + the game will be broadcast on ABC.

The 2023 Duke's Mayo Classic match-up between University of South Carolina vs. UNC Chapel Hill drew ESPN's "College Game Day" to Charlotte to preview the game. | Photo by CLTtoday

Charlotte is a familiar stage for big-time college football match-ups, drawing thousands of visitors and earning the city airtime on the national stage.

In 2023, ESPN's College GameDay came to town for the game between the Tar Heels and Gamecocks.

Data from the Charlotte Sports Foundation shows sports tourism events like this one brought nearly $80 million.

Fans should keep an eye out for Tubby, the Duke's Mayo mascot who is a jar of mayonnaise. | Photo via Charlotte Sports Foundation

Fun fact: The first Duke's Mayo Classic took place Sept. 3, 2015. The Gamecocks defeated the Tar Heels 17-13 in front of a crowd of 51,000 people.

In addition to the nearly $80 million in economic impact, events hosted by the Charlotte Sports Foundation generated $43 million in direct spending and $2.5 million in taxes for the city. Over 216,000 fans booked 70,000+ hotel rooms for events at Bank of America Stadium and Spectrum Center.

Duke's Mayo Classic is now a Queen City tradition with no signs of stopping. Mark your calendars. The 2025 Duke's Mayo Classic will showcase App State vs. UNC Charlotte at Bank of America Stadium on Aug. 28, 2025.