Louisville football: Predicting statistical over/under’s for 2020

Javian Hawkins – 1,500 yards rushing

Jacob – Push

Louisville football’s coaching staff mentioned on numerous occasions that even they weren’t sure what they had on the roster until early in the 2019 season. One player they found out a lot about was Javian Hawkins, who had beaten out presumptive starter Hassan Hall during camp.

Hawkins went from relatively unknown to one of the nation’s most dynamic rushers in 2019, something he won’t have the benefit of this season. Game plans will be focused on stopping him and his home run ability – but still, I expect him to have an even bigger season than he did last year.

However, I think a few other minor circumstances will prevent him from surpassing the 1,400 yard mark.

One, I expect more production in the passing game for Hawkins which could take away some carries.

Two, that guy Hassan Hall, he’s a starting running back just about anywhere else in the ACC and because of how dynamic he is, I expect more production for him as a junior which likely eats away at some of Hawkins’ carries.

Three, Louisville has two budding redshirt freshmen in Aidan Robbins and Jalen Mitchell as well as a former walk-on in Maurice Burkley who has been a star during fall camp. Those guys are going to get more carries than they did last year (they combined for eight carries) which could eat a little bit at Hawkins production.

So, with that being said, I think Hawkins has a big big year where he finishes with similar rushing production to 2019.

Presley – Under

In my opinion, Hawkins is the most talented, and perhaps the hardest-working skill position player on this Louisville squad. There’s a reason that he become the school running back single-season rushing leader last year.

However, Hawkins was a workhorse for the Cardinals last season while Hassan Hall spent most of his sophomore season banged up.

Hall is at 100 percent this year, and their backfield mates are eager to get some reps themselves. Jalen Mitchell and Aidan Robbins figure to play roles for the Cardinals.

I don’t think Hawkins’ yards per carry will dip in 2020, but I do think his touches will go down. That’s why I think he is over 1,000 yards, but under 1,500.