CARDINALS TAKE CARE OF VILLANOVA IN HOME OPENER

LOUISVILLE, KY - Louisville football gave Card Nation plenty to celebrate Friday night, taking down Villanova 59-13 at L&N Stadium.

The Cardinals came out fast, scoring 17 points in the first quarter and taking a 31-10 lead into halftime. Louisville kept the pressure on after the break, adding 28 more points in the second half.

Lincoln Kienholz had another strong night at quarterback, completing 16 of 21 passes for 332 yards and two touchdowns. He also added 42 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

The Cardinals finished with 635 total yards, including 375 passing and 260 rushing. Lawayne McCoy led Louisville with 102 receiving yards and a 61-yard touchdown, while Tre Richardson added 98 yards. Marquise Davis scored twice on the ground, and Braxton Jennings found the end zone both rushing and receiving.

Louisville's defense also made its presence felt with five tackles for loss and a sack. Tyler Thompson recorded the sack and forced a fumble.

After opening the season against No. 9 Ole Miss, Louisville responded with a complete performance at home. The Cardinals now get ready for SMU.

by Austin Stuckey, The Stable --- Photography Credit: Louisville Athletics