The Louisville Cardinals football program began play in 1912, and has competed in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) since 2014.
The Cardinals' most successful era came under head coach Howard Schnellenberger, who led the team from 1985 to 1994. During his 10-year tenure, Schnellenberger led the Cardinals to a 92-43 record, including five conference championships and two bowl victories. He also led the Cardinals to their first-ever national ranking in 1993.
Other notable Louisville football coaches include Bobby Petrino (who led the Cardinals to three Big East championships and three bowl victories from 2003 to 2006) and Charlie Strong (who led the Cardinals to two Big East championships and two bowl victories from 2010 to 2013).
The Cardinals have had several notable players over the years, including:
- Johnny Unitas (Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback)
- Lenny Lyles (Pro Bowler and first African-American football player at Louisville)
- Deion Branch (three-time Super Bowl champion)
- Lamar Jackson (Heisman Trophy winner and NFL MVP)
- Jaire Alexander (Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion)
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