The Vols aren't happy to be in the Music City Bowl per se, but since they're here, they might as well win, right? Finishing off 2025 with a win would set the Vols up for a strong offseason and build some momentum for the return to the College Football Playoffs next fall.
The Music City Bowl begins tomorrow, with Tennessee facing Illinois in what appears to be an exciting matchup on paper. The 5 p.m. game in Nashville will showcase two experienced quarterbacks, several notable opt-outs, and plenty of quality football.
Let's get bold about the Music City Bowl.
1. Joey Aguilar has 300 yards
Illinois has struggled mightily this year versus top offenses. Their best pass rusher, Gabe Jacas, will be out preparing for the NFL Draft, and the Fighting Illini defense will miss him mightily. Illinois is also No. 76 in the nation in pass yards allowed.
It's likely Joey Aguilar's final game at Tennessee, and you know he wants to ball out badly. Besides Brazell, Tennessee will have its usual group of starters playing on offense, so they do have an advantage. The powerful group shouldn't have much trouble moving the ball. This means Joey Aguilar will easily hit the 300-yard clip on Tuesday.
2. Tennessee has 4 sacks
Tennessee is missing one of its best pass-rushers, and Illinois is missing its best offensive lineman. The Vols were a solid team pass-rushing this fall, but not elite. Illinois struggled to protect the quarterback all year despite not dropping back much.
This sets up an opportunity for Tennessee to disrupt Altmyer all game long. Bielma will be looking to have a run-heavy attack, but when he does decide to throw, I expect Tennessee to cause plenty of issues in the trenches.
3. Tennessee Caps of 2025 with a win
Tennessee will be playing for a momentum boost into next year. The Vols seem to be in great spirits despite playing in a lesser bowl game.
It won't come easy, as Illinois is a tough, physical, and gritty Big Ten team. They will punch you in the mouth, but Tennessee has to respond with a haymaker of its own. I think it's ultimately a close game, but the athletes and offensive firepower are just too much for the Fighting Illini to handle. Tennessee
Rocky Top will be playing all throughout Broadway as the Vols walk away with a win to end the 2025 campaign.