Fansided

5 reasons Louisville can upset Florida State

By Nathaniel Reeves

Sep 9, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Jeremy Smith (34) runs with the ball against the Syracuse Orange during the fourth quarter at the Carrier Dome. Louisville defeated Syracuse 62-28. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 9, 2016; Syracuse, NY, USA; Louisville Cardinals running back Jeremy Smith (34) runs with the ball against the Syracuse Orange during the fourth quarter at the Carrier Dome. Louisville defeated Syracuse 62-28. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /
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NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 30: Devonte Fields
NASHVILLE, TN – DECEMBER 30: Devonte Fields /

2. The Cardinals defense is up to the task 

With Francois handling the offense well so far and plenty of weapons around him, consistently stopping Florida State is too much to ask of the Cardinals defense. However, Louisville’s talent and athleticism on that side of the ball should not be underestimated, and it has enough to at least slow the Seminoles down and force some mistakes.

Defensive coordinator Todd Grantham put together strong units at Georgia from 2010-2013 and has enjoyed a similar amount of success in Louisville since. Despite a lot of turnover in the linebackers and secondary, the Cardinals finished the 2015 season ranked 18th in total defense.

In particular, Louisville excelled in run defense and rushing the passer. The Cardinals will look for that to continue on Saturday in order to pressure the freshman Francois into a few mistakes and contain Cook, who hasn’t quite looked himself this season but is still one of the most dangerous players in the nation.

Louisville’s best unit is its linebackers, who can cause all sorts of havoc for the opposition. Outside linebacker Devonte Fields will be worth watching after he totaled 22.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks last season.

Again, Florida State has some injury concerns on the offensive line which Louisville can take advantage of. The Cardinals can help their upset bid by forcing a couple of turnovers and getting the ball back to Jackson, something they are very capable of.

Next: 1. It's the biggest home game in program history

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