1. Must Watch: SMU Mustangs
The biggest game on Louisville football’s schedule is in Week 3 when the Cardinals face the SMU Mustangs. Louisville hasn’t been able to find a way to beat the Mustangs over the past two seasons, as SMU has had its number, defeating the Cards 34-27 in 2024 and 38-6 in 2025.
Louisville hopes this year is different, as the two projected top-25 teams will kick off inside L&N Stadium on Sept. 19 to open the Cardinals' conference schedule. With the Cardinals opening their season against Ole Miss, their showdown with SMU is a huge spotlight where they will have a chance to start 3-0 with two early wins over notable ranked programs, or they will have to find a way to earn a marquee win and avoid a nightmare 1-2 start.
SMU is currently ranked No. 17 in ESPN’s way-too-early rankings and is in multiple outlets' top 25. With both teams eyeing an ACC Title run, this Week 3 matchup is an early battle test for both programs.