ACC Football: Each team’s top Heisman Trophy candidate for 2020
By Dante Pryor
The Louisville Cardinals come into their second season under coach Scott Satterfield with a lot of questions. Their defense finished 109th in points allowed, and their best offensive linemen are in the NFL. Their offensive line was one of the worst in the nation last season.
If there’s one area the Cardinals have few question marks, it’s at the skill positions. Their best players — running back Javian Hawkins and wide receiver Chitarious “TuTu” Atwell — both return. Most importantly, their quarterback, Micale Cunningham, returns.
Related Story. 5 first-year coaches who will struggle in 2020. light
The only thing that could derail a miracle Louisville run and Cunningham’s Heisman candidacy is injury. He got banged up a bit last season, but he is healthy and ready for a big season. Along with Hawkins and Atwell, Cunningham has second-leading receiver Dez Fitzpatrick and second-leading rusher Hassan Hall.
Not only that, but Cunningham also can make plays and put up numbers with his legs. There are going to be defenses keying in on Atwell and Hawkins, and with an average offensive line, Cunningham is going to have a banner year running the ball in addition to what he’ll do throwing the ball.
If the Cardinals make a run, expect Cunningham to make a Heisman watchlist or two.