#18 Louisville vs. #21 Duke: 3 Bold Predictions for the Showdown

Oct 7, 2023; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; The Louisville Cardinals cheerleaders lead the team to the field before facing off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Louisville defeated Notre Dame 33-20. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 7, 2023; Louisville, Kentucky, USA; The Louisville Cardinals cheerleaders lead the team to the field before facing off against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium. Louisville defeated Notre Dame 33-20. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports
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Oct 14, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Isaac Guerendo (23) carries the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Pittsburgh won 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 14, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Isaac Guerendo (23) carries the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Pittsburgh won 38-21. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

2. Defensive Battle on the Horizon

While the Cardinals’ ground game is expected to shine, Duke’s defense will not be a pushover. This game will transform into a fierce defensive battle, characterized by multiple turnovers, sacks, and crucial stops on both sides of the ball. Expect hard-hitting action and tenacious defensive plays as both teams fight to gain the upper hand.

On the Louisville side, their defense is a force to be reckoned with. Led by their formidable defensive line, they boast a fierce pass rush that can put immense pressure on the opposing quarterback. Their secondary is equipped with ball-hawking cornerbacks and hard-hitting safeties who are always ready to capitalize on errant throws and create turnovers. Linebackers with great lateral quickness make it difficult for Duke’s running backs to find open lanes, increasing the likelihood of tackles for loss and turnovers.

Duke’s offense will have to face a relentless wave of pressure from Louisville’s defense. Sacks, hurries, and quarterback pressures will be the order of the day, forcing Duke’s signal-caller into hurried decisions. The Cardinals’ ability to disrupt Duke’s passing game can lead to interceptions and fumbles.

Both defenses will rise to the occasion, making it a challenging day for both offenses. Fans can anticipate edge-of-the-seat moments as defenses force turnovers and capitalize on mistakes. In this contest, the ability to protect the football and avoid costly errors will be a determining factor.

Duke’s defense, too, is not to be underestimated. Their unit is known for its discipline and ability to read plays, which will put significant pressure on Louisville’s running game. Linebackers with excellent gap control and safeties providing run support will make it tough for Louisville to gain yards on the ground. Moreover, Duke’s defensive backs are adept at breaking up passes and could create turnovers of their own.