Louisville football is seeking to bounce back after suffering its first defeat of the season at the hands of SMU during a recent matchup at L&N Stadium. The Cardinals and Mustangs faced off for the first time in 40 years, with SMU now part of the ACC. Louisville, coming off a loss to Notre Dame, aimed to improve to 2-0 in conference play for the second consecutive year against a Mustangs team that had previously outscored its last two opponents by a combined 108-58.
The Cardinals showed their offensive strength early, averaging 41.5 points per game while holding opponents to 16 points per outing. In the match, L.J. Johnson Jr. opened the scoring for SMU with a 1-yard touchdown run after a fumble by Brashard Smith was overturned. Louisville responded with a long touchdown pass from Tyler Shough to Ja’Corey Brooks, following a quick scoring drive.
The game continued with both teams trading touchdowns and field goals, as Collin Rogers successfully kicked a 43-yard field goal for Louisville. A dominant 59-yard touchdown run by Kevin Jennings further highlighted SMU’s offensive prowess. In addition, SMU’s backup quarterback spurred the offense with a touchdown pass to Key’Shawn Smith after Jennings sustained an injury.
Louisville’s defense maintained pressure on the Mustangs, but SMU’s effectiveness continued as they integrated a higher tempo, resulting in significant yardage gains. Quincy Riley missed the game due to injury, and Louisville also faced a blow with starting defensive lineman Dez Tell absent due to a leg injury.
The match was broadcast live on ESPN, featuring an enthusiastic atmosphere at L&N Stadium, where both head coaches motivated their squads to perform vigorously against high-stakes competition. With SMU leading the all-time series 2-0, Louisville’s hopes for a season turnaround hinged on overcoming their early-season struggles and regrouping effectively.