Illinois returns to a bowl game for the first time in five years when it faces California in the Redbox Bowl on Dec. 30.
The Illini reeled off four straight wins after a 2-4 start, and the extra practices afforded by a rare bowl trip should only help coach Lovie Smith's rebuilding efforts.
Illinois' 6-6 season was highlighted by huge wins over ranked Wisconsin, and a crazy comeback on the road against Michigan State.
The Illini finished fourth in the Big Ten West.
Cal used back-to-back road wins to close the regular season to earn a spot in a bowl game close to campus. The Golden Bears ranked fourth in the Pac-12 in points allowed.
