1. TJ Quinn (LB)
Linebacker TJ Quinn has been one of the most reliable tacklers on Louisville’s defense, and that consistency will be crucial against Virginia’s balanced offensive attack. The Cavaliers lean on their running game to establish rhythm, and Quinn’s ability to diagnose plays quickly and wrap up in space will be tested throughout the afternoon. He’s shown solid instincts in both run support and short-area coverage, but this matchup demands him to be everywhere — plugging gaps, containing outside runs, and keeping Virginia from staying ahead of the chains.
With injuries thinning Louisville’s depth in the front seven, Quinn’s leadership in the middle becomes even more important. He has the opportunity to be the tone-setter for the entire defense, ensuring that missed tackles don’t turn into explosive gains. If Quinn can be the sure-handed presence that the Cardinals need at linebacker, it will stabilize the defense and put Louisville in a position to control the game's tempo.
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Louisville and Virginia will kick off Saturday, October 4, from L&N Stadium at 3:30 p.m. local time.