The 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, which happened on January 1st, 2024, was a spectacular event in the college football calendar, featuring the Big Ten’s 17th-ranked Iowa Hawkeyes and the Southeastern Conference’s 21st-ranked Tennessee Volunteers.
This exciting matchup took place at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, where both teams, supported by their fervent fan bases, created a vibrant and charged atmosphere.
The Iowa Hawkeyes, having a commendable season with a 10-3 record, were coming off an appearance in the Big Ten Championship Game. They had previously competed in the Citrus Bowl twice, with their last participation ending in a defeat by Kentucky in the 2022 Vrbo Citrus Bowl.
Conversely, the Tennessee Volunteers, with an 8-4 record, were making their sixth Citrus Bowl appearance. They had an impressive track record in this bowl, holding a 4-1 record from their five previous outings.
The game began at 1 p.m. EST and was broadcast live on ABC. In a dominant display, the Volunteers completely overpowered the Hawkeyes, clinching a 35-0 victory. This significant win further strengthened the Volunteers’ already robust Citrus Bowl history.
A notable highlight of the 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl was the inclusion of a quirky, snack-themed hot tub within the stadium, which was subsequently auctioned on eBay. Adding to the unique charm of the event, the Cheez-It mascot humorously conveyed its preference not to be eaten, in contrast to the mascot at the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Ultimately, the 2024 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl was more than just a competitive sporting event; it was a vibrant celebration of the spirit of college football. The game not only highlighted the talents, resilience, and enthusiasm of the young athletes but also captured the essence of collegiate sports. As the future of college football unfolds, the exhilarating memories of this game will continue to be cherished by football fans around the world.
