Roundtable: Previewing the 2019 Louisville football season

What is the biggest storyline in your mind heading into the season?

Tanner Hickman: I think the biggest storyline going into the start of the season is that the staff does believe there is some talent on this roster. The biggest question when Satterfield was hired in the winter was if there was talent on this roster and he had even eluded that he’d take some of the guys he had at App State over some of the pieces on this roster. However, that was before fall camp and Satterfield and some other members on staff have said in previous weeks that there are some “dudes” in the starting group so that has made everyone feel a bit more comfortable heading into the season.

Presley Meyer: Without question, the biggest storyline is quarterback play. The Cards have talent on offense, but that is all for naught if Jawon Pass cannot be the player we all think he has the ability to come.

All of our predisposed notions about this team are based around the high likelihood of below-average quarterback play. If we can just see improved QB play and improved confidence, that will elevate the entire team.

Ethan Sprowles: Louisville’s offensive line, running game, and the defense was historically bad last season. Those are 3 things that Satterfield and his staff were known for at App State. Will we see a sharp turnaround or signs for hope in those areas – that’s the storyline.

Jacob Lane: The biggest storyline to me heading into the season is at the quarterback position. Obviously, with Malik Cunningham still suffering from a knee injury, the competition at QB is all but official at this point with Jawon Pass looking for redemption. The reports after scrimmage number one were that Jawon struggled with some of the same things that hampered him last season which led me to worry a bit. But the staff was singing a different song after scrimmage two.

Notre Dame is going to bring everything they have and I have no idea how Jawon Pass will handle it. Is his confidence improved? Yes, I think so. Does that mean he’s going to be able to take care of the football and show improvement early in the season? That, I have no idea. Which is why I think that’s what we should all be watching early in the year.

Alan Thomas: I believe the Cardinals have more talent on the roster than most give credit for. To me, the biggest IF is at quarterback. Who’s gonna be the guy?

Alex Stengel: I mean, it seems like there’s only a few to choose from…

I’m writing this early and that was bad sarcasm, apologies. The most intriguing storyline for me this season: A new staff with a new culture and outlook. A roster that has significantly changed from a season ago between transfers out, transfers in, and position changes. A challenging schedule.

The storyline for me: With all the factors above, can Satterfield and Louisville rise above the local (and national) perception – winning more games than expected? If so, how many and against who?

I believe there will be a few opportunities to steal a game or two and potentially exceed expectations for this staff’s first season.