CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Friday is the 23rd iteration of the Carolinas’ first bowl game. There’s a lot on the line besides a football-shaped trophy. Let’s connect the dots.

The Duke’s Mayo Bowl — formerly the Belk Bowl — is always a big boost for business in the Queen City.

The annual event began in 2002 when Virginia and West Virginia played in front of a crowd of more than 70,000 people. It’s believed to be the fastest sell out for a first year bowl game ever.

Along with crowds of fans, the bowl game brings in big money for Charlotte.

The Charlotte Sports Foundation said the game, along with some other big events like the Duke’s Mayo Classic and the ACC Championship game, brought in nearly $80 million in 2023.

In 2021, the Duke’s Mayo Classic between Georgia and Clemson raked in $48 million alone.

Friday night’s Dukes’ Mayo Bowl could also have a big turnout as Virginia Tech and Minnesota face off in Bank of America Stadium.

Both schools have passionate fans and Virginia Tech is only a two and a half-hour drive from Charlotte.

Both have fans throughout the Carolinas, meaning even folks who don’t have a ticket could show up to tailgate and support local businesses.