UK vs. Louisville: Position by position
September 18, 2009
Quarterbacks
Mike Hartline looked like an effective playmaker in the Miami of Ohio game. Louisville’s Justin Burke threw two interceptions in a home game against Indiana State. This is an easy call.
Adv: UK
Running Backs
The Cats employ a running-back-by-committee, while Louisville relies heavily on Victor Anderson. There’s something to be said for having one guy you know you can count on at any point.
Adv: Louisville
Receivers
There were plenty of questions surrounding UK’s receivers before the opener, but most of those have evaporated. While Louisville has playmakers out wide, the Cats get the nod because it looked like they were holding back against Miami of Ohio.
Adv: UK
Offensive Line
With the return of Jorge Gonzalez, UK takes this category easily. Too much experience, too much depth for the Cards to compete here. Linemen in the Southeastern Conference play at a different level.
Adv: UK
Defensive Line
The Cats’ pass-rush looked shaky against Miami of Ohio, especially when there was no blitz. Until the Cats improve, they won’t win this category.
Adv: Louisville
Linebackers
Micah Johnson and Danny Trevathan have already been banged up, but they’ll still produce. Louisville’s suspect defense has gotten little help from its linebackers in recent years.
Adv: UK
Secondary
Trevard Lindley and the rest of the corners will be fine. The only question is how effective UK’s safeties will be against deep passes. Here’s betting they’ll get the job done.
Adv: UK
Special Teams
Kickoffs are still a major problem for UK. The returners look good, though, and the rest of the special teams look passable. Besides, Louisville doesn’t even know who its kicker is yet.
Adv: UK
Overall
UK has more talent and better talent than Louisville. The Cats are at home and also have the better coaching staff. UK is favored for a reason, and anything but a big win in the rivalry game will be at least a little bit of a disappointment.
Adv: UK