Louisville Cardinals vs Bowling Green Falcons Picks and Predictions September 20th 2025

Louisville hosts Bowling Green after bye week

The Louisville Cardinals return from a bye week looking to stay unbeaten when they face the Bowling Green Falcons on Saturday afternoon. Louisville is 2-0 after wins over Austin Peay and James Madison, while Bowling Green enters 2-1, led by veteran quarterback Drew Pyne. With Louisville losing one of its top defensive starters to injury, this game brings intrigue both on the field and at the betting window for college football picks.

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Betting Odds and Trends

The Louisville Cardinals Can Win If…

The Louisville Cardinals will rely on their defense despite the absence of linebacker Stanquan Clark, who underwent leg surgery and could miss the rest of the season. Through two games, the Cardinals rank eighth nationally in total defense (206.5 yards allowed per game) and have averaged five sacks per contest. Disrupting Bowling Green’s passing rhythm will be essential in protecting their home field.

Offensively, Louisville has shown a knack for explosive plays. Wide receiver Chris Bell hauled in a 64-yard touchdown from Miller Moss against James Madison, while sophomore running back Isaac Brown leads the nation in yards per carry (12.8). Brown’s game-breaking ability—highlighted by a 78-yard touchdown run in Week 2—gives the Cardinals an edge against defenses that overcommit.

Maintaining balance is critical. Louisville’s offensive line has held up well in pass protection, giving Moss time to push the ball downfield. If Brown continues to force defenses to respect the run, Louisville’s receivers will find space against Bowling Green’s secondary. Execution in both phases will help offset the loss of Clark on defense.

The Bowling Green Falcons Can Win If…

The Bowling Green Falcons will look to Drew Pyne’s experience to keep them competitive. The sixth-year transfer leads the MAC in completion percentage (67.1%) and is capable of stringing together long drives. If Pyne gets into rhythm with short and intermediate routes, he can mitigate Louisville’s pass rush and sustain possessions.

Bowling Green’s offense must also protect the football. Against stronger opponents, they’ve been outgained significantly—Cincinnati piled up 333 passing yards, and Liberty controlled the ground with 152 rushing yards. Limiting turnovers and flipping field position with smart special teams play could keep them within striking distance.

Defensively, the Falcons need to contain Isaac Brown. Coach Eddie George praised the sophomore back’s patience and explosiveness, noting his Heisman-level potential. If Bowling Green can hold Louisville’s rushing attack under control and force Moss into predictable passing situations, they’ll have a chance to cover the spread late.

The Lean

Louisville is favored by -14.5, reflecting both their defensive dominance and explosive playmakers. Bowling Green has struggled against FBS competition and will face a steep challenge in slowing down Brown and Bell. Still, Louisville’s missing linebacker introduces some uncertainty for their defense.

The projected score leans toward a 34-17 Louisville victory, meaning the Cardinals are likely to cover but not by much. For totals bettors, the under 54.5 is attractive, given Louisville’s defensive strength and Bowling Green’s inconsistency moving the ball against Power Five opponents.

Game Preview Recap

Louisville’s defense has been its calling card, and coach Jeff Brohm emphasized reducing explosive plays after struggles in that area last season. Through two games, the adjustments have paid off, with the Cardinals shutting down big gains while maintaining an aggressive pass rush. Losing Clark hurts, but the unit has the depth to remain formidable.

Miller Moss has shown flashes as a playmaker, but the offense has revolved around Isaac Brown. The sophomore’s 104-yard outing against James Madison, capped by a 78-yard touchdown, showcased his ability to break open games. Bell adds vertical explosiveness, giving the Cardinals a balanced offensive identity.

Bowling Green, meanwhile, is trying to solidify under Pyne’s leadership. The Falcons have yet to put together a complete performance against FBS foes, but Pyne’s accuracy and experience give them a chance to stay competitive. Limiting mistakes and establishing rhythm early will be key against Louisville’s aggressive defense.

This will be the first meeting between the programs in over a decade. For Louisville, the opportunity is clear—start 3-0 and build momentum in the ACC. For Bowling Green, the goal is to compete deep into the second half and prove they can contend with a ranked-caliber opponent.

Recent Matchups

With both teams entering with winning records, this nonconference clash offers contrasting styles: Louisville’s defensive pressure and explosive rushing versus Bowling Green’s precision passing. For bettors analyzing scores and odds, this game is one to watch heading into Saturday’s slate—alongside strategy notes from the NFL betting guide.