Louisville Football: 3 upperclassmen who need to step up in 2022

Louisville football finished last season 6-7. Which upperclassmen need to step up in order for the Cardinals to improve this fall?

The Louisville Cardinals had a rather unlucky 2022, finishing 6-7. Four of the Cardinals’ seven losses were by one possession and three by a field goal or fewer (including their bowl game against Air Force). It stands to reason the Cardinals won’t be that unfortunate again this fall.

Though the season ended on a losing note, they rebounded in year three under Scott Satterfield after a disappointing 2020 season. One of the reasons for their turnaround in 2021 was the defense.

Louisville’s defensive unit continued its improvement under Satterfield in 2022. The Cardinals surrendered 30 or more points seven times last season; most of those were to some of the better offenses in the country.

The offense saw quarterback Malik Cunningham take command of the offense. Cunningham led the Cardinals in passing and rushing. Most importantly, Cunningham cut down the mistakes, throwing half as many interceptions as he did in 2020.

Both units return practically everyone from last season, though the loss of Tyler Harrell, who led the Cardinals in touchdowns, will be difficult. However, transfers Dee Higgins (Miami) and Tyler Hudson (Central Arkansas) can bring some big-play ability to the Cardinals.

That said, this is Cunningham’s team. As he goes, so the Cardinals go. He will need some upperclassmen to step up and play well this fall. Here is a closer look at some of those upperclassmen.