What’s better than a Big Ten-SEC showdown? Nothing, if you’re a college football fan. Tennessee faces Illinois in the Music City Bowl, and it’s going to be a game to watch.
The matchup kicks off at 5:30 p.m. ET today, December 30, at Nissan Stadium, Nashville. This is the first time these two teams are meeting on the field, and both have had their ups and downs this season, once hovering near the top 10 of the US LBM Coaches Poll.
Tennessee, currently ranked 23rd, is led by quarterback Joey Aguilar, aiming for a fourth consecutive season with at least nine wins. They last achieved this feat between 1995 and 1999. However, the Vols will be without several key players today due to opt-outs, including edge rusher Joshua Joseph and wide receiver Chris Brazzell.
On the flip side, Illinois is also aiming for their ninth win of the season, which would mark their first back-to-back seasons with that many wins in the program’s storied history. Even with quarterback Luke Altmyer at the helm, they’ll be missing star edge rusher Gabe Jacas, who led the Big Ten in sacks. Other missing players could impact their chances further.
Fans can catch the action live on ESPN. The broadcast team includes Tom Hart, Jordan Rodgers, and Cole Cubelic. If you prefer streaming, the game is also available on the ESPN app with a cable login, or through Fubo, which offers a free trial for new users.
As for game odds, as of Saturday, December 27, BetMGM has the Vols favored. But with college football, anything can happen. Experts from the USA TODAY Sports Network have weighed in on their predictions, and there’s plenty of anticipation surrounding this game.
If you’re looking for more details on the game and betting options, head over to our guide on football betting.
For those interested in the game, remember: betting is risky. Always gamble responsibly.
More details about the Music City Bowl can be found on the official ESPN site here.
