Louisville football: 15 players to watch in the Charlotte game

Dec 30, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) talks with Louisville Cardinals head coach Bobby Petrino during the first half against the Texas A&M Aggies in the 2015 Music City Bowl at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

7 of 16

Oct 24, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Southern Miss Golden Eagles defensive back Kalan Reed (11) leaps in the air for an interception intended for Charlotte 49ers wide receiver Austin Duke (10 during the second quarter at Jerry Richardson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

Duke is arguably the best receiver on the 49ers. If you ask which two players are the most dangerous on the team, they are going to point towards Duke and running back Kalif Phillips. While they do not have ACC caliber play makers, Duke is still a guy that the Cardinals need to make sure they are paying attention to on Thursday.

Duke led the 49ers last year in every receiving category imaginable. According to Sports Reference, Duke reeled in 53 receptions for 534 and five touchdowns last season.

Charlotte has a new quarterback this season in Kevin Olsen and they are planning on him living up to his expectations of being a former Miami commit. If Louisville can get pressure on Olsen, all game long, Duke won’t have many opportunities to hurt the Cardinals downfield.

Duke is definitely not one of the best receivers Louisville will face this year, but he is the best that Charlotte has to offer.

Next: No. 9

Home/Louisville Football