The game features Iowa of the Big Ten and Kentucky of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

They faced two ranked FBS opponents (at the time of the matchup) during the season, losing to No.

The Hawkeyes were led by quarterback Joe Labas, who was making his collegiate debut.

[7] The Wildcats enter the Music City Bowl with a 7–5 record, 3–5 in conference play.

Kentucky will be making its sixth appearance in the Music City Bowl.