Illinois QB Luke Altmyer to Play in the Music City Bowl

News: Despite speculation of a potential postseason opt-out with an NFL Career ahead, Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer has announced that he will participate in the 2025 Music City Bowl.

The senior gunslinger churned out 2,811 yards and 21 TDs en route to an 8-4 regular season at the helm of the Fighting Illini’s offense in 2025. Of course, his return is a major boost for Barry Lunney Jr’s crew, who will need to be at their best to match Joey Agular and a Volunteers offense that averages 40.8 points per game.

That said, with former Illini staffer Tim Banks out as DC in Knoxville, as well as defensive stars CB Jermod McCoy, LB Brandon Enes, DL Jamal Wallace, and DE Kellen Lindstrom all deciding to opt out of the Music City Bowl, it’s undoubtedly a great opportunity for Altmyer to show out in his final game for Illinois prior to the NFL Draft.

Will Luke go 2-0 versus his former conference in the postseason? Luke Altmyer has been one of the best quarterbacks in Illini history. Fans will certainly be sure to appreciate his final game in the Orange and Blue.

See y’all in Nashville pic.twitter.com/cMVBADpXe2

— Luke Altmyer (@lukealtmyer9) December 12, 2025

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