#10 Louisville Vs #2 Florida State Preview: Battle Of ACC Contenders

One of the biggest games this weekend is a clash between two AP Poll Top 10 teams in Louisville, and Florida State. Louisville is coming in with a full head of steam after two blowouts and dominant performances from freshman QB Lamar Jackson. Florida State is coming in after an impressive week one victory against Ole Miss led by RFS QB Deondre Francois. Let’s get into the preview.

Louisville Cardinals

The Cardinals come into this game 2–0 and #10 in the country led by Sophomore sensation Lamar Jackson. Jackson has eclipsed 5 TDs and 400 total yards in both of his first games this season and is without a doubt leading the early Heisman race. On offense, along with Jackson, Seniors James Quick and Brandon Radcliff have also been putting up solid campaigns. Quick has 140 receiving yards and 2 TDs in this young season combined with Brandon’s 180 rushing yards.

What was supposed to be a top tier ACC defense this season in Louisville has looked suspect thus far. They are ranked 38th in the country in total defense and giving up on average 300 yards per game, and both games. The two teams they have beat, Syracuse and Charlotte, also don’t have the most potent offenses. If Louisville wants to win this game, the defense must make some plays.

Louisville heads into this game as +2.5 underdog even at home.

Florida State Seminoles

The Seminoles are coming into this game as favorites even though they are on the road. The Seminoles have looked strong this year and so has a first year QB Deondre Francois. Frenchy has the Noles 2–0 and the #2 team in the country according to the AP Poll after a solid week one victory against Ole Miss. The Noles defense did look shaky in the first game but seemed much better against Charleston Southern — so take that how you will. The big news is that star Safety Derwin James will undergo surgery and miss this game. James is easily the best player on the Florida St. defense if not on the team, and his presence will be missed massively.

If the Seminoles can continue to exploit the Cardinals defense and create a shootout atmosphere, Florida State’s on paper talent should win them this game. If they have too many mishaps early on and allow the Cardinals defense to gain momentum at home along with Lamar Jack son getting lose, they could have a rough night.

Florida State heads into this game as a -2.5 favorite even on the road. Essentially a 6 point favorites but the Cardinals get +3 because they are at home.

My pick is the Louisville Cardinals. Lamar Jackson and crew will be too much to contain with the missing of Derwin James.

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