The Fearless Prediction has spent the past few weeks relaxing, getting some much-needed rest, and preparing to finish the 2023 season in winning fashion with the Vols facing Iowa in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.

With a chance to end the year with 9 wins, the Tennessee Vols are set to take on the Iowa Hawkeyes in a highly anticipated matchup. Tennessee's season has seen its ups and downs, including a memorable revenge victory against South Carolina, but also a blowout loss at Mizzou. Nonetheless, the Vols are determined to finish the season on a high note.

Monday's game will mark the much-anticipated college start for Tennessee's new quarterback, Nico Iamaleava. The young player is stepping into the spotlight as 6th-year quarterback Joe Milton has opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft.

Iamaleava will have big shoes to fill, especially with the absence of key running backs Jaylen Wright and Jabari Small, who combined for 1488 rushing yards this season. However, he will have the advantage of working behind a solid offensive line that allowed only 18 sacks throughout the season.

The Vols will also face some challenges on the defensive end, with multiple players transferring to other schools. Tyler Baron and Tamarion McDonald are heading to Ole Miss, Doneiko Slaughter is transferring to Arkansas, and Warren Burrell is heading to Georgia Tech. This leaves the Tennessee defense with some gaps to fill, potentially paving the way for unexpected opportunities for new players.

On the other side of the field, the Iowa Hawkeyes are looking to finish their season with a strong performance. With a chance to secure their 4th 11-victory season in program history, Iowa's success has largely been attributed to their formidable defense, which is ranked 5th nationally in yards allowed and 4th in points given up per game.

However, Iowa's offense has struggled significantly throughout the season. Ranked last nationally in total offense, averaging only 239.3 yards per game, the Hawkeyes have faced numerous challenges on that front. Offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz will be stepping down after this game, following an underwhelming performance by the offense. The team's starting quarterback, Deacon Hill, has also faced his fair share of struggles, with 5 fumbles, 6 interceptions, and a completion rate of less than 50%.

Predicting the outcome of bowl games can be difficult, considering various factors such as team motivation and players opting out. In this case, Iowa seems to have the edge in terms of fewer players opting out and the opportunity to prove themselves against an SEC team.

However, questions remain about Iowa's offensive capabilities, particularly against Tennessee's solid defense. With a young quarterback making his first start, the Vols will also face their own challenges. Ultimately, the outcome will depend on whether Iowa can find a way to score against Tennessee's defense or special teams.

The game is expected to be a close battle, with both teams striving for victory. Tennessee, although dealing with a depleted roster, will rely on their strengths and determination to secure a win. The predicted final score stands at Tennessee 17, Iowa 10.

In other news, Tennessee sports betting made its official debut on November 1, 2020, making Tennessee the first SEC state to legalize sports betting.