Illinois and Tennessee meet for the first time ever on the football field with the Music City Bowl serving as the stage in Nashville. In this Locked On crossover episode, Sunny and Eric Cain break down how two 8–4 teams with high preseason expectations ended up here, and why this matchup feels far more dangerous than a typical bowl game. We dive into the quarterback duel between Luke Altmyer and Joey Aguilar, the offensive firepower on both sides, and why neither defense inspires much confidence heading into kickoff. The conversation also covers key opt-outs, including Gabe Jacas and Chris Brazzell, how tempo and explosiveness could shape the game, and why this might turn into a full-on shootout. Plus, we close with betting lines, matchup edges, and score predictions for one of the most entertaining bowl games on the slate.

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Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267

TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4XhQKtx9 Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

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Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Happy holidays from Locked On Illini! On today’s Christmas Day episode, Sunny delivers one of the most enjoyable player grades shows of the season after rewatching Illinois’ historic 91–48 Braggin’ Rights demolition of Missouri. We break down why Keaton Wagler earned a clear A and continues to look like the engine of this team, how Zvonimir Ivišić flipped the game defensively, and why David Mirkovic’s connective play mattered just as much as the box score. Sunny also evaluates Andrej Stojaković’s efficient scoring, the twin-center rotation, and what it means that Illinois dominated despite a quiet night from Kylan Boswell. Plus, thoughts on Ben Humrichous, Jake Davis, Brandon Lee’s minutes, Mihailo Petrović’s role, and why this blowout says more about Illinois’ depth than anything else. A relaxed, honest, and festive breakdown to enjoy on the holiday.

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Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267

TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4XhQKtx9

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community:

https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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It might be time to admit something that felt unthinkable a few months ago — this is Keaton Wagler’s team. After rewatching Illinois’ dominant Braggin’ Rights win over Missouri, Sunny breaks down why the offense hit its ceiling with Wagler as the primary decision-maker and why his usage, poise, and efficiency are already star-level. We dive into the numbers, the film, and the lack of freshman mistakes that separate Wagler from everyone else on the roster right now. Sunny also explains how this impacts Kylan Boswell’s role, why the offense hums best when Wagler, David Mirkovic, and Tomislav Ivišić are the main points of contact, and what this means moving into Big Ten play. Plus, a nuanced conversation about Mihailo Petrović vs. Brandon Lee, defensive tradeoffs, rotation decisions, and why Brad Underwood’s choices made sense even if they frustrated fans. This isn’t hype — it’s a clear-eyed look at where Illinois basketball is headed.

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Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267

TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4XhQKtx9

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Illinois finally gets its reset moment after the Nebraska loss, and it comes in the most unforgiving setting possible: the Braggin’ Rights game against Missouri in St. Louis. In today’s episode, Sunny breaks down why this matchup lives in its own universe, what Illinois must prove from a response standpoint, and why Missouri’s shiny record doesn’t tell the full story. We dive into Missouri’s fragile offense, the danger of Jacob Crews getting hot, and why Illinois’ size, versatility, and depth should be major advantages if the Illini stay disciplined. Sunny also explains why this game could hinge on David Mirkovic’s response after being called out by Brad Underwood, how the Ivišić brothers can stress Missouri’s interior defense, and why Kylan Boswell’s composure may decide the night. Plus, key takeaways from Brad Underwood’s revealing media session, including comments on defense, rebounding, fatigue, and mental toughness that frame this game perfectly.

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Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267

TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4XhQKtx9

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Illinois didn’t just beat Missouri in Braggin’ Rights — they absolutely dismantled them. In this live postgame, Sunny reacts to a 91–48 demolition that may have been the most complete performance of the Brad Underwood era against legitimate competition. We break down how Illinois dominated the glass, locked Missouri down defensively, and shot the lights out while holding a double-digit-win opponent to just 48 points. Sunny dives into Keaton Wagler’s continued superstardom, Zvonimir Ivišić’s game-changing stretch off the bench, and why Missouri’s top scorers were completely erased. We also discuss David Mirkovic’s bounce-back performance, the twin-center rotation, lingering rotation questions, and what this win means nationally with Illinois skyrocketing in KenPom. A cathartic night for Illini fans — and a reminder of just how high this team’s ceiling really is.

----------------------------------

Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football!

Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com

FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267

TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/4XhQKtx9

Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV

Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social

Article Referenced:

For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Illinois has been loosely linked to Harvard transfer quarterback Jaden Craig, and while nothing is official, the name is intriguing enough to warrant a deeper conversation. In today’s episode, Sunny breaks down Craig’s record-setting Ivy League career, elite decision-making, and why his profile fits what Bret Bielema and Barry Lunney Jr. have historically valued at quarterback. We also take an honest look at the concerns — from off-script playmaking to release speed and the jump in competition — and why Craig would be a stabilizer, not a savior. Sunny explains how Craig would fit into Illinois’ current QB room, what his addition would signal about the program’s short-term goals, and why this portal cycle forces teams to be realistic. Plus, we pivot to basketball with Illinois offering five-star 2026 forward Christian Collins, what kind of player he actually is, and why Tony Bilić’s role should be viewed as long-term development rather than immediate help. A wide-ranging episode that focuses on fit, ceilings, and smart roster building across Illinois athletics.

---------------------------------- Welcome to Locked On Illini, your one-stop show for all things Illinois Fighting Illini football and basketball! Join host Sunny Verma as he brings you in-depth analysis, game previews, post-game breakdowns, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Whether you're a die-hard Illini fan or just looking to stay updated on the latest in college sports, this is the podcast for you. Tune in on YouTube and your favorite audio platforms for fresh episodes and all the insights you need to stay ahead of the game. Get ready to be Locked On Illini! Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth coverage of Illini basketball and football! Email us at: talkillini@gmail.com FOLLOW OUR FACEBOOK PAGE! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564192637267 TALK ILLINI DISCORD: https://discord.gg/DWmd6J42 Follow Sunny's personal account: @theSunnyV Follow us on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/lockedonillini.bsky.social Article Referenced: For your next listen, check out the Locked On College Football podcast! From NIL deals to never ending conference realignment rumors, Spencer McLaughlin gets you ready for an exciting season on the gridiron! Click HERE to listen now. Part of the Locked On Podcast Network. Your Team. Every Day.

Everydayer Club

If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonillini.supercast.com/

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

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Gametime

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michigan faces a critical coaching crossroads as Kaylin DeBoer and Kenny Dillingham emerge as frontrunners for the Wolverines’ head football coach position. Can Michigan lure DeBoer away from Alabama and shake up the Big Ten power dynamics? Conference rivals weigh in, speculating on the impact of either hire and the potential fallout if both candidates turn down the offer.

Heisman buzz dominates with Fernando Mendoza’s clutch quarterback play leading Indiana to unprecedented heights, fueling debate over voting consistency and the legendary nature of his win. The transfer portal heats up as Bryce Underwood’s status sparks rumors, Iowa’s quarterback plans face uncertainty, and Indiana’s recruiting power surges. From bold quarterback predictions to the shortcomings of the Heisman Trophy ceremony, the Big Ten squad tackles hot topics, locker-room drama, and the year’s most intriguing “what ifs.”

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