Louisville vs. Virginia: Quick Postgame Thoughts

Chris PersonNovember 14, 2015

2015 Louisville Cardinals Football ScheduleFootball0 views

** For me the clear offensive MVP was Brandon Radcliff. He ran for 146 yards and 2 touchdowns. The offensive line was able to give Radcliff some nice sized holes and Radcliff ran with his punishing style that is unique to him. It also needs to be mentioned that Cole Hikutini had a very good game as well. He had a great catch for a first down late in the game as well as the hurdle and a touchdown on the next play.

** The defensive MVP goes to none other than James Quick. I had to give him credit here because he redeemed himself from the Virginia game last year. The hit he made on the punt returner was perfectly timed and viscous. That play helped preserve the game for Louisville. Technically this was a special teams play but let’s face it that hit was as good as any defensive hit for Louisville today.

** The defense still has some concerns going forward. There were more instances of poor tackling and lack of pursuit. One of the biggest issues that plagued the cards was a lack of pressure on Johns. Overall Virginia’s offensive line played very well but I would have liked to have seen more pressure by the front 7.

** I’m not sure where Petrino is at in regards to his quarterback. Last week Bolin earned the job without a doubt but today he struggled at times, fumbling twice. The question I have is does Bolin make the run game click or is the run game just the product of improved blocking? I think the answer to that question dictates who should be the starting quarterback. Bolin didn’t show a whole lot today in the passing game and is not much of a threat with his feet. The run game has really carried Louisville the past 2 games and if Bolin is responsible then I think he continues to start. If not, Jackson may get a shot to start at Pittsburgh to try and provide a little more production from the quarterback position. The great part about it is I think both quarterbacks are certainly more than capable of leading this team. The only question is who is the most efficient?

** Blocking was phenomenal. Not only did the offensive line block well but the tight ends and wide receivers really secured their assignments on the outside.

** Petrino is figuring out how to use the trio of Bolin, Jackson, and Bonnafon. Regardless of who starts all three are major contributors to this offense.

** This team is figuring out how to win. Regardless of how the team plays they are learning how to finish games and leave with a W. This is great to see because of how young the team is. This will only improve going forward.

** After starting the year 1-4, this team has the strong possibility of finishing the year 7-5 or even 8-4. Either one would be amazing given the early struggles.