Louisville vs. SMU Predictions: College Football Week 6

Flashbacks to the 2023 Louisville football game against NC State kept Cardinals running backs coach Chris Barclay from getting a good night's sleep over the weekend.

Barclay was reminded of the contest after the Cardinals lost 31-24 to Notre Dame last Saturday. The outstanding performances in the weekend loss to Notre Dame and the 2023 win against the Wolfpack left the coach dissatisfied.

“I'm not used to our unit being minimized like that,” Barclay said after the Cardinals ran for 131 yards on 35 carries against the Fighting Irish. In last season's 13-10 win over NC State, Louisville gained 20 yards on 29 carries.

Louisville's running backs will look to bounce back Saturday at noon against SMU at L&N Stadium. It's not only an opportunity to redeem yourself, but to do it against a top-notch defense. The Mustangs' rushing defense ranks 16th nationally, allowing 88.8 rushing yards per game. U of L has averaged 178.5 rushing yards per contest.

“We have full confidence in our offensive line to block them and we're going to plan some things that could open up some opportunities for us,” Barclay said, “but it's just going to be about embracing the challenge of running hard.

“We have to break tackles. We have to win in a phone booth, and we have to win in space. The guys who do these things most productively and most consistently are likely to produce a lot.”

• After missing his first game as a Cardinal, cornerback Quincy Riley is questionable against SMU, but coach Jeff Brohm said he is “hopeful” Riley can play. Tayon Holloway started against Notre Dame in Riley's absence.
• Louisville is one of six schools ranked in the top 20 overall in offense and defense, a list that includes ACC peers Miami, Ohio State, Texas, Indiana and Penn State. The Cardinals' offense is averaging 475.5 yards per game while their defense is allowing 271.5 yards per game, both of which rank 17th nationally.
• U of L ranks 31st nationally in turnover margin (+3) and has scored 28 points off its opponents' mistakes this season.
• Heading into Saturday's game against SMU, Louisville is 146-78-2 at home and 216-195-5 in October.
• Louisville ranks 12th nationally in tackles for loss, averaging 7.2 per game. Defensive lineman Tramel Logan, a transfer from South Florida, leads the team with five tackles for a loss.

Louisville 45, SMU 31. The loss to Notre Dame, largely due to self-inflicted mistakes, will be the motivation the Cardinals need to get back on the winning side. While both defenses have been solid this season, this could be a battle of strong offenses – with the Cardinals having enough firepower to emerge victorious.

Week 5 review: Lessons learned from the loss of roads from Louisville to Notre Dame

In the polls:U of L falls in the college football rankings after its first loss of the season

First look:Storylines, players to watch, odds and more in Louisville's ACC contest against SMU

Preparing for college: Former Trinity OC is taking on a new challenge as part of Louisville's football coaching staff

According to DraftKings, Louisville is a 7-point favorite over SMU at home.

WANT TO BET?The best sports betting and betting apps from Kentucky reviewed

WHO: Louisville (3-1, 1-0 ACC) vs. SMU (4-1, 1-0)

When: Saturday, October 5th, noon

Where: L&N Stadium

TV: Bob Wischusen (play-by-play) and Louis Riddick (analyst) will call the game on ESPN.

Radio: The game will be broadcast on Louisville Radio Network (93.9 FM and 970 AM) with Paul Rogers (play-by-play) and Craig Swabek (analyst) on the phone.

Streaming: Qualified subscribers can watch the game at espn.com/watch.

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Reach out to Louisville football, women's basketball and baseball beat writer Alexis Cubit[email protected] and follow her on X at @Alexis_Cubit.