Four games into the season, four wins, none of them very convincing.

If there was an expectation coming into this season, it was that a Charlie Strong defense would help offset any deficiencies on offense. What we’ve seen, with the exception of the first half against North Carolina, is quite the opposite.

Had Florida International not fumbled a punt return, not roughed a kicker, not lost a starting quarterback and running back, not been penalized 174 yards, the University of Louisville could have been on the opposite end of a 28-21 decision.

Every opposing quarterback has found a way to use the lack of effective UofL passing coverage to his advantage. Shredding defenders, avoiding pass rushes, finding receivers.

FIU’s offense didn’t skip a beat after starting quarterback Jake Medlock went down, his replacement, third stringer E. J. Hilliard evoking visions of Pat White with his escapability. Only FIU penalties, it seemed, could slow either of them.

Meanwhile, Teddy Bridgewater’s passing efficiency was taking a hit, connecting on 19 of 36 attempts. He would throw his first two interceptions of the season while avoiding two or three more.

As Charlie Strong would confirm after the game, “this team still has a long way to go.” No one is happier than he that UofL faces another out-of-conference foe next week.  His defense is obviously not ready for conference play just yet.

Share this

By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.

One thought on “Louisville withstands Florida International assault”
  1. I could not agree more. We can not stop anyone.

    Teddy’s percentage would have been better if their had not been so many drops. But, he made too many risky throws too.

    There is room to grow all around.

Comments are closed.