Louisville football peels the Orange on Lamar’s special day

Louisville fans show their love for Lamar Jackson during the game against Syracuse on Saturday as Lamar Jackson's number 8 was officially retired. Nov. 13, 2021Lamar 10
Louisville fans show their love for Lamar Jackson during the game against Syracuse on Saturday as Lamar Jackson's number 8 was officially retired. Nov. 13, 2021Lamar 10

In front of a crowd of a packed crowd, the Cardinals took the field against the Syracuse Orange on a day that was highlighted by the return of one of the city’s beloved sons, Lamar Jackson. This was a day that was meant to retire his number eight jersey in spectacular fashion. The energy was heartfelt because the Louisville Cardinals played spectacular from the opening kickoff!

Louisville’s offense shines to end it early

Louisville pummeled Syracuse 41-3 in front of the former Heisman Trophy winner. Malik Cunningham was set to full throttle in the first half connecting for four touchdown passes through the air. He started the game off with a six yard scamper on the ground to put the cards up 7-0. Syracuse drove down on it’s second drive and kicked a field goal for what ended up as their only score of the day.

Nov 13, 2021; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Malik Cunningham (3) looks to pass against the Syracuse Orange during the second half at Cardinal Stadium. Louisville defeated Syracuse 41-3. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2021; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; Louisville Cardinals quarterback Malik Cunningham (3) looks to pass against the Syracuse Orange during the second half at Cardinal Stadium. Louisville defeated Syracuse 41-3. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports

Cunningham went bombs away for the rest of the way spreading the ball around the field for strikes to three different receivers. Tyler Harrell and Jordan Watkins each had a touchdown reception, while Ahmari Huggins-Bruce tacked on a pair of his own. The offense once again put together a balanced performance and was able to coast for the rest of the way.

The defense would have much more preferred a shutout, however giving a total of 3 points on the day is like a golden feather in their Kangol hat. The passing game has hurt the Louisville defense in recent weeks, but conceding only 46 yards through the air isn’t anything to sniff at.

This was an honorable effort in front of Lamar Jackson to secure a win and keep the postseason hopes alive for all Cardinal fans. Louisville now sits at 5-5 overall and needs to lock in one more win to consider themselves bowl eligible. The Cards next game is against the Duke Blue Devils, which should be their best chance to grab a victory until the Kentucky Wildcats come to town. Things are looking like Christmas could come early for Cards fans this year.