The ReliaQuest Bowl features a matchup between Mississippi State and Illinois. No. 22 Mississippi State last played on November 23rd, while Illinois played last on November 26th. Both teams came away with wins in those games. The Illini will be without their biggest offensive weapon in Brown. They will be without key defensive players also. Mississippi State will be without head Coach Mike Leach who passed away suddenly after the season. Neither team has played a competitive game in over a month. Illinois defense had one of the better defenses in the country and still should be tough to move the ball against despite some losses to that side of the ball. In the last seven games at neutral sites, the Illini have had six games hit the under. The Bulldogs struggled on the offensive side of the ball at the end of the season. Illinois has conceded 19 or fewer points nine times this season. MSU will be without their top receiver and running back for this game. Illinois has scored 24 or fewer points in three out of their last four games. Even without Brown, I expect the Illini to rely on their running game and defense.

Play on the UNDER.