5. Establishing the run game
The Cardinals have been efficient on the ground and have made running the ball a key identity of this year’s team. However, their leading rusher, Isaac Brown, is out for this week's game against the Golden Bears. Brown and his 8.6 yards per carry will be missed, but not all hope is lost for the Cardinals.
Louisville still has Keyjuan Brown and Duke Watson to carry the workload left behind by Brown. Watson hasn’t played since the Cardinals played Virginia, but is hopeful for this week. Nonetheless, the keys of the backfield will most likely fall into the hands of Keyjuan Brown. Keyjuan is averaging 6.2 yards per carry and is the rushing touchdown leader this season with six.
The Golden Bears' defense averages 169.3 rushing yards allowed per game. The Louisville offense must take advantage of this and get the running game activated early so its offense can start rolling. If the Cardinals are able to run the ball, they’ll be able to win the game.