New week. Same story.
Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
It was a familiar story for the 2020 Louisville football team Saturday night in Boston. The Cardinals racked up a ton of yardage, made a big play every time it seemed like the game might be getting away from them, but were ultimately doomed by self-inflicted wounds in a 34-27 loss to Boston College.
The fumble bug once again hit Louisville in the first half, as TuTu Atwell and then Hassan Hall both lost the ball despite minimal contact (or no contact in Atwell’s case), allowing the home team to seize some early control. The Cards didn’t commit their third turnover until the game’s final drive, where a tipped Malik Cunningham pass was intercepted by Eagle defensive lineman Shitta Sillah, sealing the victory for BC.
Louisville is now just 1-11 under Scott Satterfield when losing the turnover battle. The Cards are 9-0 when winning it.
Despite all the mistakes — which included three personal foul penalties — U of L had ample opportunities on Saturday night. But every time it felt like the Cardinals might get over the hump and tie the score or take the lead, the same types of unforced errors Louisville fans have been watching all season long would rear their ugly heads.
The disappointing result tarnished what was a tremendous performance by senior wide receiver Dez Fitzpatrick, who finished with eight catches for 182 yards and a 69-yard touchdown. Malik Cunningham was terrific as well, tossing for 294 yards and two touchdowns while also running for another 133 yards.
The loss dropped Louisville to 3-7 on the season, including 2-7 in the ACC. The Cards will wrap up the regular season (maybe) in three weeks against Wake Forest.
