No. 1 Tennessee Faces Illinois in Nonconference Battle

The No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers (9-0) are set to face Illinois (7-2) in a high-stakes non-conference matchup at State Farm Center in Champaign. Tennessee has maintained its unbeaten streak, winning every game by double digits, with impressive victories over teams like Miami and Louisville. In this matchup, Tennessee's offense boasts a national-best field goal percentage of 52.1%, while their defense ranks fourth in the country. Illinois aims to disrupt Tennessee's momentum, having previously defeated a No. 1 team at home in 2013. Both teams are among the top defenses, with Tennessee being ranked second in adjusted defensive efficiency. The game is expected to be intense, with Tennessee favored by 1.5 points.