1. Duke Watson
Duke Watson hasn't been himself all year as he has been battling injuries since the first game against Eastern Kentucky. The star running back logged just one carry against Virginia back in Week 6 before he missed the remainder of the game and the previous three. Now, according to Jeff Brohm this afternoon, he is 'hopeful' and emerges as the top player who has to step up with Brown's injury.
Watson led the nation in yards per carry last season with an impressive 8.9 yards per carry. So, while losing Brown is absolutely gut-wrenching, Louisville is in good hands with Keyjuan and Watson. Last season, Watson rushed for 597 yards and seven rushing touchdowns. He logged 10 carries or more in three games,, with two of them resulting in 100 rushing yards or more,, and in the other game yielding 83 rushing yards.
The Cards don't know how long Brown will be out, but he sounds doubtful for Clemson and possibly the remainder of the season. With Louisville having to play Clemson and SMU, Watson must step up and be the dominant force he was a season ago.