Cincinnati Bearcats to Battle North Carolina in Belk Bowl

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Cincinnati Bearcats will look to defend their Belk Bowl title Dec. 28 against North Carolina.

The Bearcats will be making their second straight appearance in the game after defeating Duke 48-34 last year in Charlotte, Belk Bowl officials announced Sunday night.

Belk Bowl executive director Will Webb is excited about the matchup, saying in a release, "The Tar Heels finished the season very strong, as did Cincinnati, and it should provide a great matchup on the field."

Cincinnati (9-3) finished second place in the American Athletic Conference, winning six of their final seven games.

North Carolina (6-6) also finished the season strong, winning five of its last six games to become bowl eligible. It has lost its previous three appearances in the game by a combined six points.