1. How far can this rushing attack take Louisville?
The Cardinals will be a run-dominant team as they bring back one of the best players in college football, Isaac Brown. The freshman running back doesn't need an introduction, but for those who don't know, Brown had a historic freshman season last year as he rushed for 1,173 yards and 11 touchdowns on 7.1 yards per carry. He earned a spot on the All-ACC Second Team, ACC Offensive Rookie of the Year, and the ACC Rookie of the Year. He also earned a spot on the Freshman All-American team by PFF and 247Sports.
So, the Cardinals have a dominant RB1 and a massive rushing attack, as their RB2 will be Duke Watson. The Cardinals RB2 is also a freshman, and last season, he averaged 8.9 yards per carry, as he finished with 597 rushing yards on 67 attempts. Brown wasn't seen much on Friday night, as there is no reason to risk an injury, but as for Watson, he could display why he would make this rushing attack lethal. Watson broke free for a 60-yard rushing touchdown and was able to juke some defenders in the impressive run.
The Cardinals' run game remained stagnant for most of the night, but if Louisville can break free for some extended rushing plays, that is all that matters. This one-two punch of Brown and Watson will tire the defense, as they won't be able to take any plays off. The blueprint for Louisville to be good next year will rely heavily on this rushing attack. Brown and Watson both will have to have similar numbers from last year if Louisville wants to compete with SMU, Clemson and Miami.
Friday night showed that the Cardinals need to break free just once, and they can find a way to win. With Brown leading the charge, it will be expected of him to put up high numbers daily, but when Watson comes in, he will be a player who could break free for long runs as the defense might try and take a play off.
This rushing room has the potential to be one of the best in the nation, and if both backs can be just as explosive as last year, then that will open up the passing game, and this offense can guide this team to an ACC Championship game.