On September 6, 2024, the Louisville Cardinals fell 41‑38 to the Ole Miss Rebels in the season‑opening Music City Kickoff at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, a game that unfolded before a chaotic, electric atmosphere and marked the first defeat of coach Jeff Brohm’s tenure.
Game Overview
The Cardinals started sluggish, but a spirited third‑quarter surge saw them tie the contest at 24‑24, only for Ole Miss to pull away with a late scoring drive that sealed the win, ending Louisville’s hopes of an opening‑season victory.
Standout Performances
Transfer quarterback Lincoln Kienholz, who came over from Ohio State, was the catalyst for Louisville’s comeback, finding the end zone twice and orchestrating a decisive two‑point conversion before the final whistle, while running back Tre Richardson broke through with a 30‑yard touchdown run in the third quarter and later hauled in a 62‑yard reception that set up the Cardinals’ second‑half rally.
Ole Miss’s defense limited Louisville’s ground game, holding running back Isaac Brown to a mere 36 rushing yards, and forced turnovers that swung momentum in their favor, underscoring the importance of disciplined play in the tightly contested matchup.
Looking ahead, the Cardinals travel to face Villanova on September 11, hoping to rebound from the setback and build momentum as the season progresses.