Friday, September 18, 2009

SEC Football Blogger

Kentucky vs Louisville, Prediction Pick, 2009

Posted: 17 Sep 2009 07:52 PM PDT

Kentucky vs Louisville, Prediction Pick, 2009
By Chris Richardson at IntentionalFoul.com

This is what happened the last time the University of Louisville came to Lexington. No offense to any Louisville readers, but I’m expecting more of the same. Granted, neither team is coming in ranked ninth in the country as was Louisville back then — hence the lack of buzz — but it’s still a rivalry game. Since their last trip to Commonwealth, Louisville’s football program has noticeably regressed. Gone are names like Brian Brohm and Bobby Petrino, replaced by Justin Burke and Steve Kragthope, as well as a noticeable lack of BCS bowl bids, something that should be a little easier, given the relative strength of Big East conference. Of course, the same could be said for Kentucky since the departure of Andre’ Woodson and the rest of the gang. Nevertheless, Kentucky is the more talented team, something the 12-point favorite would indicate.

Louisville has questionable lines, both offensive and defensive and their quarterback is untested. That’s not the best mix of situations. Kentucky, while having an average defensive line, excels across their back seven, which should prove troublesome for the Cardinals offense throughout the game.

Provided Kentucky’s line can protect Michael Hartline, the improvement he showed against Miami of Ohio should continue as he gets more and more comfortable with his new array of healthy weapons. Expect to hear a great deal of out names like Randall Cobb, Chris Matthews, Derrick Locke and Alfonso Smith. Cobb might represent one of the more dangerous offensive underclassmen who doesn’t play for the Florida Gators in the SEC. He’s a dual threat who can both catch and man the quarterback position, giving Louisville’s defensive coaches a great deal to game-plan for. You’ll notice a lack of name mentioning in regards to Louisville, and that’s because they largely field a team of unknowns. That, however, doesn’t mean the Cardinals don’t have some weapons. They do. Players like Victor Anderson, Doug Beaumont, and Trent Guy could give the Wildcats problems if they don’t pay them the proper respect.

As it stands, I would expect the Kentucky defense, powered by their depth at linebacker, to put a lot of pressure on the inexperienced Burke, while showing an attacking style on offense. All things being equal, Kentucky’s talent level is the difference maker and if the Cats play to their advantages, they should win. Big.

Final score:
Kentucky - 38
Louisville - 13

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