MUST READ: More Good and Bad News for louisville

Louisville Football 2025 Preview: Are the Cardinals Ready to Lead the ACC?

Louisville football has had its moments of national relevance. The program reached major heights in 2006 under Bobby Petrino with a 12–1 season and an Orange Bowl victory. Charlie Strong also led strong campaigns in 2012 and 2013. While success in the ACC has been more sporadic, there’s optimism now as the team enters its third year under head coach Jeff Brohm.

Brohm, who returned to his alma mater after a successful stint at Purdue, has gone 19–8 in his first two seasons. The Cardinals have been competitive but have fallen short in key games, such as losses to underperforming teams like Stanford (3–9 in 2024) and Pitt (3–9 in 2023). With strong returning talent and an influx of transfers, Louisville appears positioned to take a significant step forward.

Offense Outlook

The offense is led by new starting quarterback Miller Moss, a transfer from USC, replacing Tyler Shough. Moss will be surrounded by solid weapons, including deep-threat Chris Bell and the versatile Caullin Lacy. While tight end depth is thin, the wide receiver unit is deep.

The backfield is a strength, with Isaac Brown and Duke Watson returning after combining for nearly 1,800 yards and 18 touchdowns last season. Moss isn’t mobile, but his pocket presence is solid, and the run game should help balance the offense.

The offensive line is undergoing changes, particularly at left tackle where Mississippi State transfer Makylan Pounders is expected to step in. The interior line has experienced players like center Pete Nygra, though the unit as a whole has high expectations after performing well last year.

Defensive Outlook

Defensively, the Cardinals are looking to maintain their strong front seven. Coastal Carolina transfer Clev Lubin will help replace standout pass rusher Ashton Gillotte, now with the Kansas City Chiefs. The defensive tackle duo of Jordan Guerad and Rene Konga provides a solid foundation up front.

Linebacker TJ Quinn returns after leading the team in tackles the past two years. Alongside him, Stanquan Clark has the potential to emerge as a standout. Depth remains a concern, but the unit is capable.

In the secondary, there are more question marks. After losing several key players at corner, Louisville will rely on transfers like JoJo Evans (FIU) and Corey Gordon (Baylor) to stabilize the back end. The Cardinals must improve their pass defense—last year, they were undefeated when holding opposing quarterbacks under 65% completion, but struggled when that threshold was surpassed.

Key Player

Miller Moss, Senior QB
The USC transfer has the tools to thrive in Jeff Brohm’s system, though he hasn’t yet proven he can deliver consistently in clutch moments. Moss isn’t as dynamic as his predecessor Tyler Shough, but his experience and command of the offense will be critical.

Notable Transfers

Top Transfer In: OT Makylan Pounders (Mississippi State)
Pounders is expected to fill the left tackle position immediately, a critical role following the departure of Monroe Mills.

Top Transfer Out: OT Monroe Mills (to Virginia)
Mills was a key part of Louisville’s excellent pass protection unit last year. Replacing him will be a major test for the new-look line.

Key Game

At Miami – October 17
With a bye week to prepare, this game could determine Louisville’s standing in the ACC title race. Wins over other contenders like Clemson (at home) and road games at SMU, Pitt, and Virginia Tech will also be crucial, but Miami is the biggest test.

Top 10 Players (2025)

Chris Bell, WR (Sr.)
Isaac Brown, RB (Soph.)
Stanquan Clark, LB (Jr.)
TJ Quinn, LB (Sr.)
Miller Moss, QB (Sr.)
JoJo Evans, S (Sr.)
Duke Watson, RB (Soph.)
Caullin Lacy, WR (Sr.)
Clev Lubin, EDGE (Jr.)
Pete Nygra, C (Sr.)

2024 Key Stats

Sacks: Louisville 34 | Opponents 15
3rd Quarter Scoring: Louisville 137 | Opponents 55
4th Down Conversion Rate: Opponents 66% | Louisville 41%

Season Prediction

Louisville has the pieces to remain in the ACC title picture. Miller Moss must rise to the challenge at quarterback, the secondary must gel quickly, and the team must avoid letdowns against weaker opponents. The second half of the schedule is tough, but with Brohm at the helm and a strong supporting cast, expect a 9-win season and a strong bowl appearance.

Predicted Win Total: 8.5