5. D’Angelo Hutchinson, DB
Senior defensive back D’Angelo Hutchinson is coming on a stellar, breakout performance for defensive coordinator Ron English and the Louisville secondary. Hutchinson recorded a timely interception as well as two solo tackles and five assisted tackles in Louisville’s win last week against Bowling Green. This performance earned him a spot on Pro Football Focus’s Week 4 Team of the Week, highlighting the highest-rated players at each individual position. Hutchinson’s vault into the spotlight for the secondary comes at an opportune time, with preseason projected starter Rodney Johnson Jr. continuing to battle injuries.
The secondary entered the season with the most question marks, but has arguably been one of the most positive surprises for the team thus far. They have been solid in coverage, with very few mishaps and mistakes. Hutchinson and company will look to continue this trend and be the solid last line of defense that the Cardinals will need against tougher ACC opponents. Pittsburgh will be the perfect first ACC opponent for the secondary to show that the first three games were not a fluke, and they can be a legitimate force for this defense.
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