2017 preseason college football Coaches Poll: 5 teams who are ranked too low

1. Louisville Cardinals (18)

Let’s not forget what Heisman Trophy winner Lamar Jackson did last year for the Louisville Cardinals. In only his second year, he dropped 51 total touchdowns while accounting for 5,014 yards from scrimmage. Those are video game numbers (if our beloved NCAAF gam was still around).

Jackson will certainly build on those accomplishments as he returns for his junior year. Hopefully, the offensive line will improve and give him some much-needed protection. If that happens you better make sure your popcorn is ready.

Despite a lackluster supporting cast, Bobby Petrino will be able to work his magic. He’s proven in the past he can be a quarterback whisperer and his guidance will continue to help Jackson take the next step.

The Cardinals start out the season in a very tough predicament. They open the year with games at Purdue and North Carolina. That’s followed by a home contest against the defending champs, Clemson. If they can survive that gauntlet they will be well on their way to surpassing last year’s 9-4 record.

However, if they lose a couple of those games, the rest of their season is very much in jeopardy.

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Fortunately for Cardinals’ fans, Petrino will surely release some new wrinkles on offense that teams haven’t seen before. If they can catch the Tar Heels and Tigers off-guard that may be enough to squeak out a couple of victories.