CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Illinois has officially accepted its invitation to the 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, where the Illini will face South Carolina on December 31 in Orlando. The game will kick off at 1 p.m. at Camping World Stadium.

Illinois Athletic Director Josh Whitman expressed the university’s pride in the invitation. “The University of Illinois is honored to accept today’s invitation to play in the 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, and we would like to thank Florida Citrus Sports and CEO Steve Hogan for this tremendous opportunity,” Whitman said. “Playing in such a prestigious, tradition-rich bowl game is a well-earned reward for our football team, which, with nine wins and a Top 20 national ranking, has notched one of the greatest seasons in program history.”

Whitman praised head coach Bret Bielema’s leadership, highlighting the program’s growth over the past four years. “Since his arrival, Coach Bielema has remained steadfast in his championship vision for Illinois Football,” Whitman continued. “His leadership, combined with a matching commitment from our coaches, staff, and players, has propelled this program to new heights, including now a second New Year’s bowl game in three seasons.”

Illinois will face South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl, marking the continuation of a strong season. South Carolina, which also finished the regular season with a 9-3 record, enters the game on a six-game winning streak, including victories over ranked teams such as Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, Missouri, and Clemson.

Illinois is ranked No. 20 in the final college football playoff rankings.