Louisville secured a 31-19 victory over Georgia Tech in their Atlantic Coast Conference opener, with Ja’Corey Brooks’ 57-yard touchdown reception proving to be the winning score. Tayon Holloway added an insurance touchdown by blocking a field goal and returning it 45 yards for a TD. The Cardinals displayed strength in both their defense and offense throughout the game. They led 17-7 in the second quarter but faced a tie at 17 before regaining the lead in the third quarter with a touchdown pass from Tyler Shough to Brooks.
Georgia Tech attempted to close the gap, making it 24-19 after a safety caused by Shough stumbling in the end zone earlier in the fourth quarter. However, Louisville sealed the victory when Holloway blocked a field goal attempt and returned it for a touchdown. Shough completed 13 of 19 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with Brooks for 125 yards and a score, while Chris Bell also contributed with 82 yards and a touchdown.
Ramon Puryear scored a crucial touchdown for Louisville after recovering a deflected lateral attempt from Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King in the end zone. Despite being outgained by Georgia Tech 410-326, Louisville’s multidimensional performance helped them secure the win. Georgia Tech’s decision to gamble on fourth down resulted in mixed outcomes, with the team failing to convert a crucial fourth-and-goal from the 3-yard line early in the fourth quarter.
Louisville was penalized seven times for 69 yards, including penalties that nullified significant plays on offense. The team will face Notre Dame next week, aiming for a consecutive series win, while Georgia Tech will host Duke after a bye week.