By Sam Draut–
Louisville notched their first win of the season with a 45-3 victory over Samford. The Cardinals (1-3) jumped out to a 21 point lead in the first quarter and cruised in the second half.
QB1: Lamar Jackson started at quarterback for the second time this season. The freshman completed 15 of 22 passes for 212 yards and one touchdown. Jackson’s biggest plays came on the ground. He rushed for 184 yards, setting a new school record from the quarterback position. Jackson had two rushing touchdowns and also had a season long rush for 73 yards. After the game, head coach Bobby Petrino said Jackson would be the starting quarterback moving forward, the position debate settled at this point.
D: Though Samford is an FCS school, Louisville’s defense still looked better than it has over the previous weeks. The Cardinals held Samford to 3 of 11 on third down conversions and hauled in three interceptions. Jaire Alexander, Chucky Williams and Trumaine Washington picked off passes that lead to 21 points from Louisville offense.
Return: After injuring his ankle against Auburn, junior wide receiver James Quick returned to the field on Saturday. Quick had three receptions for 69 yards and a touchdown, dramatically flipping into the end zone on his 36 yard touchdown reception.
New HB: Reggie Bonnafon had a few designed packages, lining up at running back and also playing quarterback in goal line situations. Bonnafon had six carries for 26 yards and added a 13 yard reception out of the backfield. The sophomore played a few series at quarterback, completing 3 of 6 passes for 62 yards.
Spreading it out: Between Jackson and Bonnafon, Cardinal quarterbacks completed passes to 12 different receivers. Quick led the way with receptions and receiving yards, but JaQuay Savage added two catches for 43 yards. Cole Hikutini pulled in two catches for 25 yards, his first bit of extended action since Auburn. Along with the receivers, seven different Cardinals had rushing attempts. Brandon Radcliff finally found a few holes, rushing for 36 yards and a touchdown on six carries.
What’s Next: Louisville will hit the road to face NC State next Saturday at 12:30 p.m.
