The game was named after its title sponsor, Outback Steakhouse.

[5] Ole Miss entered the game with a 4–5 record in an SEC-only schedule.

They had wins against Kentucky, Vanderbilt, South Carolina and Mississippi State.

They were one of a limited number of teams to enter a bowl game with a losing record.

Indiana entered the game with a 6–1 record in a Big Ten-only schedule.