The Murray State Racers and the Louisville Cardinals will square off on Thursday night in a game that has all the makings of a David vs. Goliath matchup.

The Racers are coming off a 41-10 win over Presbyterian, while the Cardinals are coming off a loss to Florida State. Murray State is a 42.5-point underdog in this game, but the Racers have little chance to pull off the upset even if they can play their best football.  However that spread might be inflated. Let’s take a closer look.

Murray State is led by quarterback DJ Williams, who is a dual-threat quarterback that can beat teams with his arm and his legs. Williams threw for 104 yards and rushed for 65 yards in the win over Presbyterian. The Racers also have a strong running game, led by Javian Ringer, who ran for 125 yards in the win.

Louisville is led by quarterback Malik Cunningham, who is a dual-threat quarterback that is similar to Williams. Cunningham threw for 296 yards and rushed for 101 yards in the loss to Florida State. The Cardinals also have a strong running game, led by Michael Carter II, who ran for 122 yards in the loss.

The Cardinals are the clear favorites in this game and they should be, but the Racers have a chance to keep the game closer if they are able to run the ball and run the clock. Murray State is a good defensive team that is led by linebacker Tevin Floyd, who had 10 tackles in the win over Presbyterian. The Racers will need to force a turnover and get some good special teams play if they want to stay competitive in this game.

Here are some other key factors to watch in this game:

• The Cardinals’ offensive line: The Cardinals’ offensive line is a major concern heading into this game. The line allowed Cunningham to be sacked four times in the loss to Florida State. If the Cardinals’ offensive line can’t protect Cunningham, it will be difficult for them to score points.
• The Racers’ running game: The Racers’ running game is their strength, and they will need to establish it early and often in this game. If the Racers can run the ball effectively, it will take pressure off of Williams and the passing game.
• The turnovers: This game could come down to turnovers. Both teams are capable of creating turnovers, and the team that wins the turnover battle will have a good chance of winning the game.

I think this game will be a lot closer than most people think especially the first half but the Cardinals will win the game. I think the Cardinals will pull away in the 2nd half. I certainly see no path to Louisville covering a 42.5 point spread.

Final Score Prediction: Louisville wins 35 -17

Play on Murray State and the UNDER 55.5 points