Louisville football: 3 things from Cards loss to Clemson

The defense was up for the challenge

If there was one thing to be very positive about after the Clemson matchup, it’s the defense. After back to back games where they gave up 39 to Boston College and 59 to Wake Forest, they were actually much better during the 45-10 loss to Clemson.

The Cardinal defense had two interceptions and forced three punts in a game that featured a 60 point over/under that was supposed to be a blowout. You’d think this would be enough for the Cardinals to at least cover the spread, but again, it’s Clemson. They gave up 23 first downs in comparison to the 40 they gave up in Winston-Salem last weekend. From an eye-test perspective, this performance was impressive, considering what the last two or three games have looked like.

They held Clemson to just 17 first-half points and it was so close to being 10. The Tigers’ second-quarter touchdown with just five seconds left was another play the Cardinals couldn’t afford to let occur. But even with that being the case, 17 at the half is solid. 24 through three quarters is solid, it was the 21 point 4th quarter that made this number a lot greater than what it should have been.

What really illuminates this defense’s progress is the opponent they played. This Clemson team is one of a kind. They arguably have more NFL talent than any team in college football. They probably have the best quarterback and maybe the best running back in the NCAA. They have a wide receiver that could be the first one taken in the draft. This is just different than any other game that the Cards have played or will play.

Overall it was very good to see Louisville make some big plays and at times, look like they could hang with one of the juggernauts. They should be relieved to see the likes of pretty much anyone going forward.