Louisville Football: 5 Cardinal players to watch vs. Indiana State
By Jacob Lane
Jeremy Smith – RB
Welcome back Mr. Smith! As I mentioned in my post about the return of Jeremy Smith, the last time we saw #34 was after his second fumble on the goal line against Purdue in Indianapolis. After being injured, deciding to transfer, and then coming back to Louisville, there is a lot to be optimistic about for Smith and a lot for the coaching staff and fans to be nervous about at the same time.
We all remember that Smith struggled, and I mean struggled, to hold on to the football when he was the primary ball carrier. This is what got him in the dog house of one Bobby Petrino. However, hope springs eternal, and with Louisville’s struggle at running back getting a healthy, motivated, and humbled Jeremy Smith back could be HUGEEE for the Cards.
Many forget just how good Smith was during his first two full seasons (when he wasn’t fumbling). In 2015 and 2016, Smith combined to rush for over 500 yards while getting into the end zone 11 times. Smith showed the ability to run with great power and even speed for his size, while blocking at a high level for Lamar Jackson and even catching the ball out of the backfield.
As Bobby Petrino said the Louisville running back job is wide open. It would take a big game on the ground from Smith, but there’s not doubt he could grab the job full-time as the team’s go to running back.
If not, Smith has the size (6’2″ 225 pounds) to be a reliable option at full back and on the goal line. IF, he can take care of the ball.