1. Chris Bell, WR
Even through the unfortunate news of a torn ACL that ended his season, Chris Bell provided breakout performances when he was given the chance this season. One of the offensive stars of the season, Bell put up an impressive stat line in limited time overall due to injuries. Bell provided 72 receptions for 917 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns. He was consistently quarterback Miller Moss’s favorite target and stepped up in big moments to be the sure hands Louisville needed.
Although he was plagued with injuries to start and end the season, Bell put together one of the best 3 game stretches by a Louisville receiver many of us will ever see. His performances against Pittsburgh (10 receptions, 135 receiving yards, 1 receiving touchdown), Virginia (12 receptions, 170 receiving yards, two touchdowns), and Miami (9 receptions, 136 receiving yards, and two touchdowns) were the main reason for victory (or almost victory) in a start that propelled Louisville to a top 15 College Football Playoff ranking at their peak.
It’s a shame the quarterback play wasn't more consistent, and that the injury bug reared its ugly head for Bell most of the season. This season was already awe-inspiring, but it could have been one for the record books for Louisville's receiving. Louisville fans are proud to have Chris Bell wear the Cardinal jersey and hope to see him become an absolute star in the next phase of his career.