2. Special Teams turnovers kept this game from being over early.
This game got off to an incredibly unwatchable start, with both sides of the football providing lackluster performances for the Cards. This was until the special teams group showed up with a very controversial muffed punt return recovery that set up Louisville’s first touchdown of the game. The play provided a massive shift in momentum and was the first stepping stone for Louisville’s comeback after starting down 17-0.
The special teams group stepped up once again, rushing the Pitt punter, forcing a fumbled snap, and recovering the said fumble. The next series ended with a strike from Miller Moss to Chris Bell to cap off the 17-point comeback for the Cardinals. These two plays proved to be huge for the Cardinals and re-ignited a team that appeared to be uninspired to start the game. These plays can’t be relied on each game as a key to success; however, being able to capitalize when these opportunities do present themselves will always go a long way towards securing a win.