In the fourth part of the Louisville Football Season in Review series, From The Pink Seats Podcast breaks down a less than stellar defensive performance from 2021.
Taking a closer look at four metrics in the “3 & Out” segment, they use the data points to tell a complete story about the defense underachieving despite multiple players emerging into dynamic weapons.
While it’s easy to point the finger at defensive coordinator Bryan Brown and his playcalling, the statistics tell a story much more focused on execution; or the lack thereof. When it mattered most this season, Louisville struggled in just about every category; specifically in the fourth quarter. From pass rush on standard & passing down, to turnover rate, to giving up big plays on the ground in obvious passing situations, at every corner Louisville took a step back.
Also read: What Louisville is getting in four-star wide out DeVaughn Mortimer
Still, several players put together breakthrough seasons.
CJ Avery led the team in tackles for the fourth time in his career.
Ashton Gillotttee, a true freshman, finished second on the team in sacks.
Kenderick Duncan, Marvin Dallas, Trey Franklin, and Q Cole emerged as turnover creators.
Yaya Diaby was a QBH warrior, totaling 7 on the season.
Jaylin Alderman made the play of the year on his first snap of the season.
Derek Dorsey, Mason Reiger, Malik Clark, Ramon Puryear, Rhyeem Craig.
Yasir Abdullah finished with 10 sacks (the most for a Louisville defender since Devonte Fields had 11 in 2015)
Stats from the show are below!
From The Pink Seats: 3 & Out (Defense):
First Down – Defensive turnover rate
- .068% – Ranked 112th nationally (According to Football Outsiders)
- Description: The percentage of opponent offensive drives that end with an interception or fumble.
Second Down – Pass down line yardage
- 3.30 – Ranked 118th in the country
- Rushing yardage given up on obvious passing downs (2nd & long, 3rd & long)
Third Down – Standard down & passing down sack rate
Standard down
- 5.1% – Ranked 79th in the country
Pass Down
- 8.8% – Ranked 54th in the country (Editors note: We call this the “Yasir Abdullah” effect)
4th Down – Quarter by quarter scoring margins
- 1st quarter (all games): 114 to 84 (Louisville) (Editors Note: Louisville gave up double-digit scoring just 3 times in the first quarter in 2021)
- 2nd Quarter (all games): 121 to 100 (Louisville)
- 3rd Quarter (all games): 77 to 45 (Louisville)
- 4th Quarter (all games): 99 to 126 (Opponnett)
In wins
- 1st quarter: 66 to 20 (UL)
- 2nd quarter: 97 to 29 (UL)
- 3rd Quarter: 30 to 21 (UL)
- 4th Quarter: 41 to 30 (UL)
In losses
- 3rd Quarter – 47 to 24 (Louisville)
- 4th Quarter – 58 to 79 (opponent)
For more Louisville football coverage follow Jacob Lane, Matthew McGavic, and Vincent Lococo as well as From The Pink Seats Podcast on Twitter.
You can listen to the full show above or download the episode (and all others) anywhere podcasts are available.
