Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Opt-Outs Reshape Illinois–Tennessee Music City Bowl

Opt-outs, injuries, plus vulnerable pass defenses point to a pass-heavy matchup.

Overview

  • Illinois (8–4) faces No. 23 Tennessee (8–4) on Dec. 30 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, pairing Luke Altmyer against SEC passing leader Joey Aguilar.
  • Illinois will be without edge rusher Gabe Jacas and left tackle J.C. Davis due to NFL Draft opt-outs, with defensive back Matthew Bailey sidelined after shoulder surgery.
  • Tennessee loses top receiver Chriss Brazell II to a draft opt-out after a 1,017-yard, nine-touchdown season.
  • Altmyer confirmed he will play, and Illinois veterans Miles Scott, Josh Kreutz and Tanner Arkin are expected to suit up.
  • Previews list Tennessee as roughly a 4.5-point favorite, and both teams’ struggles against the pass plus scoring averages (Vols 40.8 ppg, Illini 29.3) suggest a potential shootout as the Vols begin bowl prep.