Louisville crushes Kentucky 41-14 in Governor's Cup victory
- Louisville Cardinals dominated the game with a strong offensive performance, led by Isaac Brown and Duke Watson, each scoring two touchdowns.
- The Cardinals' defense was also instrumental, creating five turnovers and allowing only 14 points.
- This victory secured the Governor's Cup for Louisville for the first time since 2017 and ended their losing streak against Kentucky.
In the game held on November 30, 2024, in Lexington, Kentucky, the Louisville Cardinals faced off against their rival, the Kentucky Wildcats, in a much-anticipated college football matchup known as the Governor's Cup. Louisville took control early, establishing a significant lead by halftime at 20-0, largely thanks to the outstanding performances from their running backs Isaac Brown and Duke Watson. Brown distinguished himself with 178 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including a remarkable 67-yard touchdown run, which sealed the game for the Cardinals. Duke Watson also had a notable performance, rushing for 104 yards and scoring two touchdowns as well. His contributions included a 58-yard touchdown run, and together with Brown, they showcased a dominant rushing attack that overwhelmed Kentucky's defense. In addition to their offensive prowess, Louisville's defense excelled, forcing five turnovers, which was pivotal to their success. The Wildcats attempted to mount a comeback, with quarterback Gavin Wimsatt stepping in during the second half and throwing for a touchdown, but the effort fell short. Wimsatt's transition highlighted a potential quarterback battle for next spring, as he managed to connect with Ja'Mori Maclin for an 83-yard touchdown, providing a glimpse of hope for Kentucky. Meanwhile, Louisville was relentless in their pursuit, and defensive back Tamarion McDonald made a critical impact by recovering a fumble and intercepting a pass, contributing to their strong defensive showing. The victory marked Louisville's first win in the Governor's Cup since 2017, ending a five-game losing streak against Kentucky. Following the game, Louisville is set to await their bowl assignment, looking to capitalize on the momentum gained from such a decisive win as they aim to continue their successful season culminating in a bowl appearance. This match was not only significant for bragging rights but also for establishing momentum heading into the postseason.