Overview
- Tennessee confirmed five NFL-draft opt-outs for the Dec. 30 game: edge rusher Joshua Josephs, wideout Chris Brazzell II, linebacker Arion Carter, and cornerbacks Colton Hood and Jermod McCoy.
- Illinois will be without left tackle J.C. Davis and edge rusher Gabe Jacas after draft declarations, with safety Matthew Bailey out due to injury.
- Head coach Josh Heupel said the staff anticipated the departures and has been practicing in Nashville with the group that will play.
- The Vols plan to lean on Jordan Ross and Caleb Herring off the edge and freshmen Radarious Jackson and Travis Smith at receiver, with young defensive backs including Ty Redmond and Tre Poteat set for bigger roles.
- Kickoff is set for Dec. 30 at Nissan Stadium (5:30 p.m. ET, ESPN), and local analysis points to a potentially higher-scoring matchup given the defensive losses on both sides.