Cold temps, high winds, and intense action. That’s what awaited tailgaters in Fayetteville, AK, this past weekend. Not only was the TCL eSports Lounge a fun place to spend a few hours ahead of the big game, but it also provided shelter from harsh weather that awaited football fans.

Located on the lawn just in front of the Bud Walton Arena, fans had to walk by the Wendy’s Tailgate Tour on their way to the arena, making for a very busy stop with plenty of visitors.

The No. 16 Mississippi State Bulldogs decimated Alabama the week prior, and hoped to keep their bowl dreams alive with another dominating performance. Meanwhile, the Arkansas Razorbacks, who were 4-6 overall, needed a win to secure bowl eligibility. With strong motivation on both sides, it promised to be a thrilling matchup!

Mississippi State at Arkansas

As fans awaited kickoff, many visited TCL’s eSports Lounge and enjoyed video games, live sports, and a much-needed break from the wind. Tailgaters around the lounge were also treated to two very special guests. These included NFL running back and Arkansas alum, Knile Davis, as well as former NFL and Arkansas running back Peyton Hillis.

For Hillis, who had been featured on the cover of EA Sports' Madden NFL 12 video game, it was only natural for him to spend some time gaming on TCL TVs in the lounge. Not only did he pose for pictures and sign autographs, but he also challenged fans to a game on the latest Madden NFL.

When the kickoff got underway, football fans enjoyed a close, tough fought match.  After sprinting to a 14-point early lead, Arkansas couldn’t hold on against Mississippi State’s onslaught and fell 28-21.

Stay tuned for updates from our final stop on the tour, when we visit Michigan this weekend as they host Ohio State. If you’re attending the game, be sure to stop by the TCL eSports Lounge!