LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The University of Louisville football team is gearing up for a highly anticipated matchup against No. 20 Duke at L&N Stadium. The No. 18 Cardinals are looking to bounce back from a tough loss to Pitt and assert their dominance on their home turf.
In their last game, Louisville fell to Pitt by a score of 38-21. The Cardinals struggled with turnovers, giving the ball away three times inside the opposition’s 30-yard line. Despite holding a halftime lead of 21-14, they were unable to maintain their momentum and were outscored 24-0 in the second half, resulting in their first loss of the season.
Heading into this game, Louisville is focused on defending their home field and securing their ninth consecutive home win. They have been dominant in front of their home crowd, winning eight straight games after their loss to Florida State in September. The Cardinals are hungry for a victory and aiming for a nine-game home winning streak, a feat they haven’t accomplished since the 2015 and 2016 seasons.
Looking back at their loss to Pitt, quarterback Jack Plummer had a solid performance, throwing for 350 yards and a touchdown. However, he also had two interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown. Wide receiver Jamari Thrash was a standout player, catching nine passes for 120 yards, while Maurice Turner contributed 81 yards on the ground. Despite a strong defensive effort that limited the Panthers to just 288 yards of total offense, the Cardinals were ultimately plagued by their turnovers, which allowed Pitt to capitalize and score 14 points.
The upcoming matchup against Duke holds special significance as it is the annual Homecoming game for Louisville. Historically, the Cardinals have thrived in homecoming games, boasting a record of 60-36. They are aiming for their fifth consecutive win in this festive contest, with hopes of replicating last year’s success when they defeated Pitt 24-10.
Louisville is coming off a bye week, providing them with an opportunity to rest and regroup after seven consecutive games. Coming off a bye week has been a mixed bag for the Cardinals, as they hold a record of 54-49-1. Head coach Jeff Brohm has a solid track record when his teams have had an open week, boasting a record of 6-4 during his tenure at Western Kentucky and Purdue.
On an individual note, Plummer’s performance against Pitt showcased his talents as he threw for 350 yards and a touchdown. This marks his second 300-yard passing game since joining Louisville. Plummer has also been consistent in throwing a touchdown pass in all seven games he has played for the Cardinals, along with a streak of nine consecutive games dating back to his time at California. His standout performance against Boston College, where he threw for 388 yards, further highlights his ability to lead the Louisville offense.
With the stage set for an intense showdown against Duke, Louisville is determined to make a statement and secure a crucial victory on homecoming day. The Cardinals will rely on their talented roster and the electric energy of their home crowd as they aim to extend their home winning streak and cement their position as a force to be reckoned with in college football.
