Louisville football: Three locks and three bold predictions vs Notre Dame
Bold Prediction: Louisville scores first
It may only be a via a short field goal, or a stroke of good luck, but if there’s a time for Louisville to get a couple of scores against Notre Dame, it’s going to be early in the game.
The Irish were a complete team on defense last season, but they lose a few key playmakers. Initially, it may take a couple of drives for them to get settled in. Additionally, Louisville is never going to be less predictable this year than in its first few drives. I think the Cards will try to keep Notre Dame’s defense on its heels for the first few possessions by hitting a lot of check-downs and quick hitters before the vaunted defensive line of the Irish starts trying to wreak havoc.
Meanwhile, while Notre Dame returns four offensive linemen, their center is not only a first-time starter, but a transplant who came in to play a different position. The chemistry between the center and quarterback is vital, and I think with a noisy crowd to open, and against an untraditional defense that Notre Dame may struggle early up the middle.
Lock: Tutu Atwell leads the team in receptions
Notre Dame’s strong front four is going to present a lot of problems to the new look Louisville offensive line. I feel confident that as a whole the group will be extremely improved and show that against the Irish. However, guys like Julian Okwara will be win their fair share of battles and put pressure on Jawon Pass.
That means getting rid of the ball as quick as possible on passing plays. Enter Tutu Atwell.
Louisville’s dynamic 5’8 receiver gives the offense a quick outlet to get the ball to who can turn a few years into a six points. I look for Scott Satterfield to try and build confidence in Jawon Pass by completing shorter and intermediate passes and if you can get the ball into the hands of Atwell, you give yourself an opportunity to get yards after catch.
I think Dez Fitzpatrick and Seth Dawkins will see more targets overall, but Tutu Atwell will be the one who ends up leading the team in catches.