Tennessee football’s upcoming clash against Illinois in the Music City Bowl is set for next week, with the Volunteers aiming to conclude a challenging 2025 season on a high note. However, the team will have to navigate the game without several key players due to opt-outs and transfers.
During a recent media session, Coach Josh Heupel expressed that the roster is largely finalized for the bowl game, although there has been one recent opt-out since his announcement. Here’s a look at the current status of Tennessee’s lineup as they prepare for the Music City Bowl.
Jermod McCoy, a cornerback who has been sidelined for the entire regular season due to a torn ACL, will not participate in the bowl game, which is not unexpected given his injury history. Wide receiver Chris Brazzell, after a standout 2025 campaign where he accumulated 62 receptions for 1,017 yards and nine touchdowns and earned All-SEC honors, has declared for the NFL Draft. His absence means that freshmen Travis Smith Jr. and Radarious Jackson will likely step up and take on larger roles against Illinois.
Linebacker Arion Carter, who led the team with 76 tackles last season, will also miss the matchup. Carter has dealt with injuries, including turf toe, throughout the regular season, and with his absence, Jeremiah Telander and Edwin Spillman are expected to start, along with additional contributions from Jadon Perlotte, Ben Bolton, and Jaedon Harmon.
The transfer portal introduces further changes to the roster, with running back Peyton Lewis also opting out. Lewis was a significant contributor this season, rushing for 290 yards and scoring seven touchdowns. In his stead, DeSean Bishop, Star Thomas, and Daune Morris are anticipated to see increased carries.
Quarterback Jake Merklinger, who served as the backup this season with 173 passing yards and two touchdowns, will also be missing. George MacIntyre will take over the backup duties behind Joey Aguilar for this crucial bowl game. Additionally, linebacker Brenden Anes, defensive back Marcus Goree Jr., and defensive linemen Kellen Lindstrom and Jamal Wallace, who had limited playing time throughout the season, will all be absent.
A key uncertainty remains around cornerback Colton Hood. Though reports suggest he plans to declare for the NFL Draft, he has not officially announced this decision yet. As it stands, Hood is expected to participate in the Music City Bowl, but this situation is fluid and may change.
As Tennessee prepares for this pivotal matchup, the focus will be on how effectively they can adapt to these roster changes and capture what would be a significant victory to round out their season.