WKU Football: Tops Flogged by Cardinals, 38–21
Western Kentucky had a 23 point deficit heading into the half, the Hilltoppers attempted but failed to outscore the cardinals falling…
Western Kentucky had a 23 point deficit heading into the half, the Hilltoppers attempted but failed to outscore the cardinals falling, 38–21.
In the first half, the Hilltoppers started out strong, however the Cardinals finally found the Endzone at the 12:06 minute mark and it wouldn’t be the last time. WKU struggled both offensively and defensively.
On the offensive side of the ball, Louisville’s Defense was in Duncan’s face most of the half. Gaej Walker wasn’t able to get his footing either, only allowed to get 14 yards at the half. The Hilltoppers only score came in the 2nd quarter (11:12 left) from tight end Josh Simon getting a 77 yard reception.
Defensively, Louisville’s Malik Cunningham has done whatever he wanted. He threw for 7 of 10 for 114 yards and rushed for 33 yards on 13 carries. Western’s Defensive backs (minus Devon Key) were absent most of the first half. Louisville’s offensive strategy seemed to RPO (Run-pass-option) with the occasional deep pass (Atwell 46 yards for a TD). Louisville went into the locker room leading 31–7 at the half, and it was very ugly for WKU with three touchdowns and a field goal coming in the second quarter.
The Hilltoppers came out of the half with a crazy play literally rolling their way. Cunningham rolled to his left attempting a shuttle pass which was broke up and recovered by Devon Key. WKU capitalized and later in that drive. Karma came back and bit WKU in the bum, (un)Lucky Jackson fumbled a pass and the Cardinals capitalized and scored.
Tyson Helton pulled a shocking call by going for a onside kick. However, WKU wasn’t able to capitalize and turned the ball over on downs. WKU attempted to make some progress but failed to move the ball with 3:21 left in the 4th and leaving Louisville to run the clock out.
Duncan’s ankle injury became apparent during the second half which limited his mobility in the second half, forcing him to sit in the pocket more than he might’ve if he had been healthy. Gaej Walker was unable to make a difference, due to Louisville’s defense stopping up holes better than Flex Seal. Louisville’s offense produced 415 yards while WKU was held to 288 yards (245 passing, 43 rushing).
On a positive note, WKU didn’t give up. They continued to fight until the last few minutes. If this team continues to steam ahead with a competitive attitude then WKU should do well come C-USA time.
Overall in the second half, WKU didn’t come out flat. They may have been down 31–7 but they made up for it in the second half out scoring Louisville 14–7. Louisville’s offense produced 415 yards while WKU was held to 288 yards (245 passing, 43 rushing). WKU had less penalties than Louisville (UofL 6, WKU 5) and WKU finally forced a turnover. But it wasn’t enough to stop the Cardinals.
Final stats:
