The game was sponsored by Quick Lane tire and auto centers.
[7] Minnesota received and accepted a bid to the Quick Lane Bowl on December 2.
[6] The Golden Gophers entered the bowl with a 6–6 record (3–6 in conference).
Georgia Tech received and accepted a bid to the Quick Lane Bowl on December 2.
[6] The Yellow Jackets entered the bowl with a 7–5 record (5–3 in conference).