Louisville Football: 3 bold predictions vs. Kent State in Week 4

2. Louisville defense will play better, but it could be fool’s gold

Louisville gave up a total of 613 yards at home against Clemson. Kelly Bryant threw for 316 yards on 22-of-32 completions and a touchdown. To say Bryant torched the secondary is putting it lightly. The Tigers had a great offensive mix as they ran for 297 yards on 48 carries as well.

Besides the pick-six given up by Jackson, the Cardinals’ defense got 40 points hung on it and that’s a major problem. Louisville has been known for their explosive offensive, but this unit isn’t known to stop anybody.

This unit will play better against Kent State wholly because it is Kent State (no disrespect, but we know it isn’t Clemson).

During the first three games, teams have averaged 452.7 yards per game against the Louisville defense. We know Clemson gained over 600 yards in one game, but even if you take that out the defense doesn’t overly impress you. Kent State doesn’t even average 300 yards of total offense, currently sitting at 259.3 yards per game.

The defense will have to stand strong against the run this week, which was a problem against Clemson. But once again, Kent State isn’t Clemson, so I’m willing to bet the Cardinals will do a better job against their opponent from the MAC.

Bottom line, Louisville will have a better showing against Kent State, but it won’t mean everything is fixed. Saturday will be fool’s gold, but it will be a step in the right direction for this unit.