2. TJ Quinn, LB
Another major contributor to the loss of linebacker Stanquan Clark was the individual alongside Clark from the beginning of the season, senior TJ Quinn. Quinn was the projected senior leader during the offseason and a player that many Louisville fans expected to come up big for the Cardinal defense. Quinn responded by doing just that, anchoring a Louisville defense that was consistently the team's strength as the season progressed.
Quinn had a massive season in his linebacking role, gathering 87 tackles (39 solo) with three sacks and two interceptions, and being one of the most consistent performers for defensive coordinator Ron English. His first of his 2 best performances came against the Pittsburgh Panthers, where he recorded two interceptions and was a key piece in Louisville’s 2nd-half comeback. Quinn’s second-best performance came the last week of the season against the rival Kentucky Wildcats, where he finished with 10 tackles, which included two sacks on quarterback Cutter Boley.
Quinn’s legacy on the Cardinals' defense will be his ability to provide consistent performances and to provide a solid foundation when injuries plague key players. His play this season will always be remembered on a defense that will go down as one of the best in Cardinal history.