Louisville, KY, October 18, 2025
In a thrilling clash at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, the University of Louisville Cardinals defeated the No. 2 Miami Hurricanes 24-21, marking Miami’s first loss of the season. Quarterback Miller Moss threw for 280 yards and connected with Ja’Corey Brooks for a game-winning 35-yard touchdown pass. The victory propelled Louisville to a 6-1 record, showcasing their resilience and competitive edge in the ACC. This also secured the Schnellenberger Trophy for Louisville, breaking ground in the storied rivalry between the two programs.
Louisville Shocks No. 2 Miami with Dramatic Upset Win
Louisville, KY – In a thrilling Friday night clash at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, the University of Louisville Cardinals stunned the No. 2 Miami Hurricanes 24-21, handing the Hurricanes their first loss of the season. This upset victory marked a significant milestone for the Cardinals, showcasing their competitive edge in the ACC.
Game-Clinching Moments
Quarterback Miller Moss played a pivotal role, throwing for 280 yards and two touchdowns. His performance culminated in a game-winning 35-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks with just seconds remaining on the clock. The Cardinals’ defense also proved crucial, forcing a key fumble in the red zone during the late stages of the fourth quarter, which prevented Miami from regaining the lead and ultimately sealed the win.
Team Resilience and Coach’s Perspective
The Cardinals trailed by 10 points entering the fourth quarter but mounted a strong comeback, demonstrating resilience and strategic adjustments. Head coach Jeff Brohm highlighted the team’s determination, noting their ability to overcome adversity as a key factor in the victory. This grit has become a hallmark of Louisville’s play this season, energizing both players and supporters.
Impact on Season Records and Rankings
With this win, Louisville improves to a 6-1 record, keeping them firmly in the race for the ACC title. The victory is expected to propel the Cardinals into the AP Top 25 rankings next week, signaling a pivotal moment in their 2025 campaign. For Miami, the loss drops their record and ends an unbeaten start, potentially shaking up the national college football landscape as teams adjust their strategies moving forward.
The Schnellenberger Trophy’s Significance
The game was for more than just a win; it decided possession of the Schnellenberger Trophy, a rivalry award honoring legendary coach Howard Schnellenberger, who built successful programs at both Louisville and Miami. This marks the first time the trophy will reside in Louisville since its inception, adding a layer of historical prestige to the Cardinals’ achievement. The trophy symbolizes the deep ties between the two programs and underscores the competitive history of this matchup.
Fan Reaction and Program Momentum
Fans in Louisville are buzzing with excitement following the upset, with many drawing comparisons to the program’s resurgent spirit in recent years. The atmosphere at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium was electric, as the home crowd witnessed a comeback that will be remembered for its drama and stakes. This victory not only boosts morale but also reinforces Louisville’s growing reputation as a formidable contender in college football.
Broader Context in ACC and National Play
The ACC has seen several close contests this season, and Louisville’s performance against a top-ranked opponent highlights the conference’s depth. As the Cardinals continue their schedule, this win provides momentum heading into tougher matchups. Nationally, upsets like this can influence playoff discussions and rankings, keeping fans and analysts on edge for the remainder of the regular season. Louisville’s success under Brohm’s leadership has steadily built over multiple seasons, transforming the team from underdogs to serious threats.
Player Performances and Defensive Stand
Beyond Moss and Brooks, the Cardinals’ offense showed balanced contributions, with effective running plays complementing the passing game. Defensively, the unit’s ability to force turnovers in critical moments was instrumental. Miami’s offense, known for its explosive plays, was held in check during key drives, a testament to Louisville’s preparation and execution under pressure. These individual efforts combined to create a cohesive team performance that outlasted the Hurricanes’ early lead.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
For Louisville, the focus now shifts to maintaining this momentum while navigating the rest of their ACC slate. Miami, meanwhile, will look to regroup quickly to protect their standing in the rankings. Games like this one exemplify the unpredictability of college football, where determination and timely plays can topple even the most dominant teams. As the season progresses, this matchup will stand out as a defining moment for both programs.
FAQ
What was the final score of the Louisville vs. Miami game?
The University of Louisville Cardinals stunned the No. 2 Miami Hurricanes 24-21.
Who led the Louisville Cardinals in the game against Miami?
Quarterback Miller Moss led the charge, throwing for 280 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-winning 35-yard strike to wide receiver Ja’Corey Brooks with just seconds left.
What key defensive play helped Louisville win?
The Cardinals’ defense forced a crucial fumble in the red zone late in the fourth quarter to seal the victory.
How does this win affect Louisville’s season?
This win boosts Louisville’s record to 6-1, keeping them in contention for the ACC title and propelling the Cardinals into the AP Top 25 next week.
What is the Schnellenberger Trophy?
The Schnellenberger Trophy honors the legendary coach who built dynasties at both schools, and it now resides in Louisville for the first time since its inception.
Key Game Statistics Chart
Below is a table summarizing the key features of the Louisville vs. Miami game, highlighting performance metrics that defined the upset.
| Category | Louisville Cardinals | Miami Hurricanes |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 24 | 21 |
| Passing Yards (Moss) | 280 | N/A |
| Touchdowns (Passing) | 2 | N/A |
| Game-Winning Play | 35-yard TD to Ja’Corey Brooks | N/A |
| Key Defensive Play | Forced fumble in red zone | N/A |
| Season Record After Game | 6-1 | First loss |
| Trophy Won | Schnellenberger Trophy | Lost |
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