NASHVILLE, TN (WAND) -- The countdown is on as the Illinois Fighting Illini are one day away from taking the field in Nashville for the Music City Bowl.

For the second straight year, Illinois will face a challenging opponent from the Southeastern Conference, this time matching up against the Tennessee Volunteers. Both teams enter the bowl game with identical 8–4 records, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.

Tennessee brings a high-powered offense into the matchup, averaging around 40 points per game this season. The Vols’ scoring ability has Illinois preparing for a fast-paced and physical contest on both sides of the ball.

Illinois coaches and players say the focus heading into the game is on execution, discipline, and matching Tennessee’s speed and intensity.

The Music City Bowl kicks off Tuesday, December 30, at 4:30 p.m. at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. Fans are expected to fill the stands as both programs look to close out the season with a bowl victory.

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