How Illinois Football Takes Down Tennessee in the Music City Bowl

Illinois football is set to take the field at Nissan Stadium against Tennessee for the Illini’s third bowl game of the Bret Bielema era. The 8-4 Fighting Illini enter Nashville as 3.5-point underdogs, according to ESPN, with the chance to notch their second consecutive postseason victory over an SEC opponent after taking down Shane Beamer and South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl in 2024.

In addition to several weeks of extra practice for returners, bowl wins are undoubtedly a powerful recruiting tool. A victory over Tennessee would give Bielema’s squad back-to-back wins against the Big Ten’s most formidable rival conference – a statement that could have lasting effects in Champaign.

That said, the Illini must execute first.

So, what will it take for Illinois football to secure win No. 9? We break down the Illini’s path to a Music City Bowl victory.

A Major Threat the Volunteers’ Offense Poses to Illinois Football’s Inconsistent Defense

One of the biggest concerns for Illinois football heading into the Music City Bowl is slowing down a Tennessee offense that has been nothing short of explosive in 2025. Led by quarterback Joey Aguilar, the Volunteers are averaging 40.8 points per game, ranking 4th nationally in total offense and 2nd in the SEC, trailing only Ole Miss.

Aguilar capped his season with 3,444 total yards and 24 touchdowns – to only 10 interceptions, placing him top 10 in passing offense, and on the radar as a potential Day 2–3 pick in the impending 2026 NFL Draft. His ability to stretch the field and capitalize on defensive mistakes poses a serious test for an Illini defense that has been inconsistent.

Key Absences for Illinois Football

Complicating matters further, Illinois football will be without a few key defensive pieces.

All-Big Ten edge rusher Gabe Jacas and starting left tackle JC Davis have opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft, while starting safety Matthew Bailey will miss the bowl game following a post regular season shoulder surgery. The Illini have also felt a noticeable void with defensive leader Xavier Scott on the sidelines, who has missed most of the regular season due to a 4th quarter injury in week 3 against Western Michigan. Coach Bielema’s staff hasn’t ruled his potential timely return out, however, it’s seems unlikely.

As is often the case in bowl games, opportunity exists for new contributors to emerge. Joe Barna could be the next man up for the Illini.

Stepping in for Jacas, Barna has logged quality snaps throughout the season, including a sack against Indiana, and has drawn high praise from Bret Bielema’s staff since his arrival in 2024. This game could potentially be a launching point for the sophomore edge rusher as Illinois football looks toward its defensive future in 2026 and beyond.

However, the Illini must generate consistent pressure on Aguilar and force timely turnovers. Otherwise, it will be difficult for Luke Altmyer and the offense to keep pace in what could quickly turn into an old-fashioned shootout in Nashville.

Illinois Football. Aaron Henry. Music City Bowl. Photo Credit: Vincent Bruington. Armchair Illini. Nashville, TN. 12/29/25.

A Major Opportunity for Illinois Football to Capitalize on in the Music City Bowl

While Tennessee’s elite offense poses a major threat to Aaron Henry’s up and down crew, the Vols’ defense has struggled to keep SEC offenses contained.

Senior quarterback Luke Altmyer has a chance to deliver a defining performance under offensive coordinator Barry Lunney Jr.

Notably, former Illini staffer Tim Banks will not serve as Tennessee’s defensive coordinator in Nashville following his recent firing. Plus, the Vols will also be without four high-impact defensive starters who have chosen to opt out of the Music City Bowl in preparation for the NFL Draft.

• CB Jermod McCoy.
• CB Colton Hood.
• LB Arion Carter.
• Edge rusher Joshua Joseph.

These absences leave Tennessee with a battered secondary that has already struggled throughout the regular season. This creates clear opportunities for Altmyer and the Illini passing attack. Furthermore, if the Illini can establish early rhythm in the run game and protect Luke, the ability to exploit mismatches downfield will likely be plentiful.

This matchup certainly possesses all the makings of a potential nail-biter. A costly turnover or a pair of three-and-outs could be the difference in the end. Plus, time of possession will be critical. If Altmyer continues to make smart decisions that keep Tennessee’s offense on the sideline, Illinois football has a strong chance to secure its ninth win of the season.

Illini ♾️ pic.twitter.com/vl7LAK75cM

— Luke Altmyer (@lukealtmyer9) December 28, 2025

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