AP Polls just set the stage for Louisville's blockbuster showdown with Tennessee

The stage is set for tomorrow night.
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The AP Polls were released this afternoon, and the Louisville basketball team has a significant opportunity tomorrow evening. Louisville is about to end its crucial four-game stretch and stands at 2-1 after a dominant performance against Memphis.

The Cards are squaring off with Tennessee in Knoxville tomorrow night, and the AP Polls are allowing both teams to climb up the rankings. Louisville will enter this marquee matchup ranked No. 11 in the nation, and the Volunteers will be No. 20. This massive ACC/SEC showdown is 9-1, while Tennessee is 7-3 and on a three-game losing streak.

Related: New Bracketology gives Louisville fans the dream matchup they have begged for

Latest AP Polls sets the stage for Louisville vs Tennessee

The Cards have played three teams ranked this season already and are 2-1 in those matchups. Louisville defeated Kentucky and Indiana but lost to Arkansas. The Wildcats and Hoosiers are now not ranked, giving Louisville another opportunity to make a statement and win on the road in a tough SEC environment.

The Cardinals are seeking revenge for last year's 77-55 loss on their home court in the second game of the season. Pat Kelsey has made it clear that the game sparked Louisville’s season and was a key reason why they went on to have their historic year. Now, Louisville is the favorite and ranked No. 11 in the nation, while Tennessee is trying to get back in the win column and has dropped to No. 20.

Tennessee has shown potential this year, defeating No. 3 at the time Houston, but since then, they have lost to Kansas, Syracuse, and Illinois. Now, they will try to find that rhythm back and defeat Louisville.

This game will be the highlight of the night, as it is the only rank vs. rank matchup. The Cardinals enter this matchup with a 57.8 percent chance of winning, and are 1.5-point favorites.

Louisville and Tennessee will tip-off tomorrow at 7:00 local time. For all news and updates, stay tuned.

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