In a tightly contested Liberty Mutual Music City Bowl, Illinois edged out No. 23 Tennessee, 30-28, in Nashville on Tuesday, capping off a strong 9-4 season for the Illini and handing the Vols their fifth loss of the year.
This one was a battle of contrasting styles and late-game drama. Illinois leaned on a balanced offensive attack, while Tennessee flashed moments of explosive playmaking but ultimately couldn’t capitalize on key opportunities - including a missed field goal that loomed large in the final minutes.
Joey Aguilar and the Vols’ Ground Game Show Up Early
Tennessee’s offense didn’t light up the stat sheet, but it found some rhythm on the ground. The Vols racked up 157 rushing yards on the day, with DeSean Bishop carrying the load. The freshman back turned in an impressive 93-yard, two-touchdown performance, showing great vision and burst between the tackles.
Quarterback Joey Aguilar was efficient through the air, completing 14 of 18 passes for 121 yards. He added a rushing touchdown as well, keeping the Illinois defense honest with his legs. But while the Vols moved the ball in spurts, they struggled to sustain drives and finish possessions - a theme that would haunt them down the stretch.
Illinois Finds Its Groove on Both Sides of the Ball
Illinois quarterback Luke Altmyer delivered a steady, dual-threat performance that kept the Vols guessing. He went 20-of-33 for 196 yards and a touchdown through the air, while also rushing for 54 yards and a score. His ability to extend plays and move the chains with his legs was a key difference-maker.
The Illini piled up 417 total yards, including a dominant 221 on the ground. That kind of control in the trenches allowed them to dictate tempo, especially in the second half. When you’re churning out over 200 rushing yards against a ranked SEC opponent, you’re doing something right up front - and Illinois’ offensive line deserves a tip of the cap for that performance.
Special Teams Spark, but Missed Opportunity Costs Tennessee
With just under five minutes left in the game, Tennessee’s Joakim Dodson delivered what looked like a game-changing play - a 94-yard kickoff return touchdown that electrified the Vols’ sideline and gave them a late lead. It was the jolt Tennessee needed, and for a moment, it felt like the tide had turned.
But the momentum didn’t last.
Tennessee had a chance to reclaim the lead with a 39-yard field goal attempt from Max Gilbert, but the kick sailed wide. That miss proved costly, as Illinois held on to seal the win.
What It Means
For Illinois, this was a statement win - a gritty, physical effort against a ranked SEC opponent on a national stage. The Illini finish the season with nine wins, and this bowl victory adds a strong exclamation point to a campaign that showed real growth on both sides of the ball.
Tennessee, meanwhile, ends the year at 8-5, with plenty to build on - especially in the run game - but also some questions to answer. The Vols showed flashes of big-play potential, but inconsistency in the passing game and missed opportunities in key moments kept them from closing the deal.
In the end, Illinois made more plays when it mattered most. And in bowl season, that’s often the difference between going home with a trophy or a list of what-ifs.