Tennessee's High-Tempo Offense to Clash with Iowa's Disciplined Defense in Citrus Bowl
Freshman QB Nico Iamaleava to Make First Career Start for Volunteers Against Hawkeyes' Top-Ranked Defense
- Tennessee and Iowa are set to face off in the Citrus Bowl, with Tennessee's high-tempo offense clashing with Iowa's disciplined defense.
- Tennessee's freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava will make his first career start, facing a tough challenge against Iowa's defense which has allowed the fewest 20-plus yard passes in the country.
- Iowa's offense, which ranks last in the FBS in total offense, will need to step up against Tennessee's defense, which ranks second in the SEC in sacks per game and rush defense.
- Tennessee's defense will be tested by Iowa's trio of running backs, Leshon Williams, Kaleb Johnson and Jaziun Patterson, especially given the Volunteers' recent losses in the secondary due to transfers.
- Both teams have multiple rivalry games, but neither has a single dedicated rival, adding an interesting dynamic to the Citrus Bowl matchup.