TJ Quinn - LB
Now for the heart and soul of the Louisville football defense — T.J. Quinn. The Cardinals’ defense is for real and has kept them in games multiple times this season. Quinn has his group ready to go each week, and they’re constantly flying to the ball. Louisville just held Virginia to 90 rushing yards after the Cavaliers had gashed teams on the ground all year.
Quinn has done it all this season, including a sack, multiple big tackles, and two interceptions. The Cardinals have the fifth-best scoring defense in the ACC, and with some work, it’s possible they can climb to the top. His unit faces a huge test next week at Miami, a game that could be a turning point in the Cardinals' season.
The Cardinals’ offense may start slow, but the defense often comes out of the gates hot. Louisville is never out of a game thanks to Quinn’s leadership and steady presence. No matter what the stat sheet says, the growth and maturity he’s shown this season have been remarkable. Quinn has a chance to anchor this defense down the stretch and help take this team a long way.