The Citrus Bowl, played annually in Orlando since 1947, is the seventh-oldest bowl game in the country. It traditionally features top teams from the Big Ten and SEC, drawing fans from across the country.

The Illini rallied three times before overcoming the Gamecocks in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl thanks to two touchdowns by Josh McCray.

It’s gameday in the Sunshine State, and there’s a lot on the line for the South Carolina Gamecocks in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. South Carolina (9-3) is trying to win its 10th football game in a season for the fifth time ever.

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Considering the Big Ten finish expected of Illinois in the preseason (No. 14 out of 18 teams), a 10-win season culminating in a Citrus Bowl win would seem to make a final-game report card sort of superfluous.

Josh McCray scored his second touchdown of the game on a 9-yard run midway through the fourth quarter to give No. 21 Illinois the lead, and the Illini held on to beat No. 14 South Carolina 21-17 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.

South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer waves to supporters after arriving for the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. Sam Wolfe Special To The State It’s gameday in the Sunshine State ...

Illinois had a historic 2024 college football season, winning 10 games including the Citrus Bowl. Every story about coach Bret Bielema and the Illini.

Josh McCray's two touchdowns and a strong defense led Illinois to a 21-17 victory over South Carolina in the Citrus Bowl.

Josh McCray rushed for 114 yards and two touchdowns, including the go-ahead score with 7:29 left, to lead No. 20 Illinois to a 21-17 Citrus Bowl victory over No. 15

Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is bringing a New Year's Day treat as the No. 15 South Carolina Gamecocks (9-3) take on the No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini (9-3) at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.