Despite the losses of quarterback Brian Brohm and running back Michael Bush, Louisville still got off to a 4-0 start, but it’s clear the offense has taken a big hit. Louisville is still the best offensive team in the country due to attempts to win early in the season, but in its last game against K-State, which was the first without Bush or Brohm, the offense was not an easy sailing ship. I’m not going to try to make you believe that Middle Tennessee State has a shot at this one, but the Blue Raiders have been impressive at times this season. They played tough against Maryland in a 24-10 road loss in Week 2 and shut out North Texas 35-0 last week.
Louisville’s defense has helped carry the Cardinals in the absence of their two preseason Heisman Trophy contenders. The Cardinals defense has allowed just 13 points in its last three games and is very capable of throwing a shutout in this one. However, there are two big factors to consider. The game will be played in front of the Blue Raiders home crowd and Louisville has a big target on its back. Those are two big motivating factors that should have the Blue Raiders risking everything in a no-lose situation.
Another thing to consider is how Middle Tennessee State will decide to play this one. If they play to win and take a lot of opportunities on offense with trick plays and downfield plays, we could see several costly turnovers by the Raiders that could lead to easy scoring opportunities for the Cardinals. If they play not to lose with conservative plays, they should be able to keep the clock ticking and keep the score somewhat close in the first half. One area where trick plays could be very effective in Friday night’s game is in special teams situations. Deceptive plays are very difficult to set up. A well-planned fake punt could give the Blue Raiders a big play and a big boost in this one and I think Middles Tennessee State will have at least one good trick up its sleeve.
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