Louisville head coach Bobby Petrino had a good game-plan - spread Florida State’s defense out with five receivers in empty sets and throw. Exploit FSU’s linebackers and safeties in coverage.
Florida State defensive coordinator Harlon Barnett knew this, too. His counter was to blitz. He stunted with the defensive line. He sent linebackers, like Dontavious Jackson and DeCalon Brooks. He sent corner-backs, namely Kyle Meyers. He sent them early and often in an attempt to pressure Louisville quarterback Jawon “Puma” Pass into making mistakes.
But while Jackson and Brooks both recorded sacks early, and defensive end Brian Burns and big defensive tackle Marvin Wilson were playing well, Petrino’s game-plan was working and the Louisville passing game was moving the ball.