Injuries have taken a major toll on the Louisville offense, and the Cardinals have lost three straight after being in the discussion for an ACC Championship spot. The offense is missing its biggest playmakers, and the defense has worn down.
Now they face a Kentucky team that has the better quarterback and a strong defense. The Wildcats have a Top 25 run defense, and the offense ranks 44th in points per quality drive.
While the Cardinals have done decently against the run, they have one of the highest missed-tackle rates in college football. That sets Kentucky up to do what Mark Stoops loves most—grind out drives on offense and wind down the clock.
Kentucky must win this game to get to a bowl, and Louisville is reeling after going from being in the driver’s seat for the ACC to losing three straight. I’ll take the more motivated team getting plus-odds in a rivalry game as the Wildcats win the Governor’s Cup.