Louisville Sports Rundown: From Hall of Fame Honors to Bracketology Buzz
There’s a lot happening in the world of Louisville sports right now, so let’s dive into the key storylines - from postseason projections and recruiting rankings to coaching moves and Hall of Fame nods.
Louisville Favored Over Wake Forest - But Cautiously
The Cardinals hit the road this weekend, heading to Winston-Salem for a Saturday showdown with Wake Forest.
The spread has Louisville favored by 7.5, but as fans have learned this season, nothing comes easy. Avoiding another sluggish start will be critical - especially in an ACC road game where momentum can shift fast.
The Cards have the talent to take control early, but execution in those first 10 minutes will be everything.
Bracketology Watch: Cards Slotted as a 6-Seed
Joe Lunardi’s latest Bracketology update has Louisville sitting as a 6-seed, projected to face the winner of a First Four matchup between New Mexico and Ohio State.
It’s an encouraging sign of where the Cards stand nationally, but also a reminder that there’s still work to be done. The margin for error is thin, and every game down the stretch matters.
That includes Monday’s White Out game against NC State - a big opportunity both on the court and in the eyes of the selection committee.
Bilal Powell Earns Hall of Fame Nod
A well-deserved honor for former Louisville standout Bilal Powell, who’s been named to the Kentucky Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026.
Powell’s career - from his breakout senior year at U of L to a steady NFL run - has always been marked by toughness, professionalism, and production. This recognition is a fitting tribute to a player who left his mark at every level.
Recruiting Update: Cards Sitting Strong in 2027 Rankings
Rivals dropped its first look at the class of 2027 recruiting rankings, and Louisville comes in at No. 11 nationally.
That’s a strong early position, and it reflects the work being done behind the scenes to build for the future. One name to watch: C.J.
Rosser, a top-tier prospect who recently visited Louisville and came away impressed with the program’s pace and system. He sees himself fitting in as a versatile three/four, particularly in a ball-screen-heavy offense that can take advantage of his size and skill.
Chris Redman Back on the Sidelines
Chris Redman is back in the coaching game and already making waves with the Louisville Kings.
The former Cards quarterback has found a new rhythm in his second stint on the sidelines, bringing his deep football IQ and leadership to a new generation of players. It’s always good to see Louisville legends giving back to the game and the city.
Keith Towbridge Joins Kentucky Staff
Another former Cardinal is making coaching moves - this time across the rivalry line.
Keith Towbridge, who played tight end at U of L, has joined Will Stein’s staff at Kentucky, where he’ll be working with the running backs. It’s a unique transition, but Towbridge brings a versatile football background and a fresh perspective to the role.
Tyler Shough Wins Fan Vote for NFL Rookie of the Year
Shoutout to Tyler Shough, who took home the NFL Rookie of the Year fan vote.
While the AP’s version of the award went elsewhere, the fans made their voices heard - and they clearly saw something special in Shough’s debut season. He’s got the tools and the poise to build on that momentum moving forward.
Women’s Hoops: A Gritty Loss to Duke
Louisville’s women’s team suffered a tough loss to Duke on Thursday night - the kind of game that leaves a mark.
It wasn’t always pretty, but the fight was there. In an era where the game is constantly evolving, this team continues to play with an edge and a throwback mentality that fans can appreciate.
They’ll look to bounce back quickly as the schedule doesn’t get any easier.
Big East Down, But UConn-St. John’s Still a Must-Watch
It’s been a down year for the Big East overall, but when UConn and St. John’s meet at Madison Square Garden, it’s still appointment viewing.
Plenty of talent on both sides, and the energy in the Garden never disappoints.
Quick Hits
- SEC commissioner Greg Sankey is making headlines by asking a judge to rule a player ineligible.
That’s a rare move, and it’s sparked plenty of conversation.
- The Belle of Louisville is feeling the winter freeze - and honestly, who isn’t?
It’s been a cold one across the board.
- One week until (maybe) baseball.
Fingers crossed.
- The official poster for the 2026 Kentucky Derby Festival is out - always a sign that spring is inching closer.
- Jeff Brohm has extended an offer to class of 2028 defensive lineman Kamryn Andrade - a name to file away for the future.
- Khani Rooths is coming into his own at just the right time, showing flashes that could elevate his game - and the team - to another level.
- For just the fifth time in over three decades, men’s college basketball enters February with two unbeaten teams still standing. That’s rare air, and it sets the stage for a wild March.
**And Finally… Beat Wake. **
No need to overthink it. Saturday’s mission is simple: go into Winston-Salem, start fast, and come out with a win.
The season’s heating up, and every possession matters.
Let’s see what this group is made of.