Louisville’s Lamar Jackson a bright spot in dark year for Cardinals

Louisville’s Lamar Jackson has been a constant in a difficult season for the Cardinals and Tuesday, he was named the ACC Rookie of the week.

Looking up at their competitors in the Atlantic Coast Conference, this season has been a trying one for the 1-3 Louisville Cardinals. A bright spot for them has been freshman quarterback Lamar Jackson and Monday, he was named the ACC Rookie of the Week.

More from ACC

Jackson had a tremendous day Saturday, rushing for 184 yards, and two touchdowns, breaking the school record of 162 set by Jim Wagoner in 1984. As if that wasn’t enough, he set the record for total offense in a game by a freshman with 396 yards, which in addition to his running numbers included a stellar passing performance. He completed 15-of-22 passes for 212 yards and a touchdown, as Louisville defeated Samford by a 45-3 score.

Jackson has shown that he can not only be a dual-threat quarterback but embrace the role as he has been a source of constant production for the program both on the ground and through the air. He has rushed for 314 yards and four touchdowns while passing for 495 yards and two touchdowns on the season.

Although it is still early in this young man’s collegiate career, he reminds me of Teddy Bridgewater in the sense that he possesses that dual-threat ability. Much like Bridgewater, he has the ability to be the focal point of the offense and keep defenses on edge with his multi-faceted skill-set as he is able to keep plays alive and try to get the most out of each possession as possible.

The Cardinals look to use Jackson’s talents on the road this Saturday as they travel to North Carolina State to face the Wolfpack.

Next: 30 Best College Football Quarterbacks of All-Time

More from Saturday Blitz