Louisville football is trying to make a statement this week as California comes to town. This will be the first game since the Cardinals were ranked No.15 by the playoff committee, in a ranking that left Louisville fans with a couple of questions. Nonetheless, it is up to the Cardinals to prove that they aren’t just a fringe playoff team this year.
The Cardinals are the heavy favorites this weekend as they walk into Saturday night’s matchup with a 91.6% chance to win, according to ESPN analytics. Louisville can’t let that get to its head, as one slip-up would cost it its ACC championship dreams and a shot at the College Football Playoff.
In order not to slip up, Louisville must have multiple players play to their potential this Saturday. Especially without the help of star running back Isaac Brown. Let’s take a look at three players who must step up for the Cardinals to take care of business against California.