The last time these two teams played, the 1997 Citrus Bowl, a certain quarterback named Peyton Manning threw four touchdowns passes to lead the Volunteers past Northwestern, 48-28. Playing linebacker on that Northwestern defense? Pat Fitzgerald.
This time around, Fitzgerald will be on the Northwestern sideline, and Manning will have to watch from home as he prepares for his game Sunday with the Denver Broncos.
Here are three reasons to watch Friday’s Outback Bowl (Noon ET, ESPN).
1. Two talented running backs
The question Friday won’t be which running back goes over 100 yards?