The Louisville Cardinals college football program represents the University of Louisville in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). Established in 1912, the Cardinals have a rich history characterized by periods of significant success and growth. The team competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), having joined in 2014. Prior to this, Louisville was a member of several other conferences, including Conference USA and the Big East Conference.
The Cardinals play their home games at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, formerly known as Cardinal Stadium. Located on the university's campus in Louisville, Kentucky, the stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 61,000, providing an energetic and vibrant atmosphere for home games. The stadium, originally opened in 1998, underwent significant expansions and renovations, enhancing the game-day experience for fans and players alike.
Louisville's football program has seen notable success over the years, highlighted by several conference championships and bowl game victories. The Cardinals have claimed multiple conference titles, including in the Missouri Valley Conference, Conference USA, and the Big East. Their bowl game history is equally impressive, with appearances in the Orange Bowl, Sugar Bowl, and Fiesta Bowl, among others.
One of the most prominent eras in Louisville football came under the leadership of head coach Bobby Petrino, who led the team to several high-ranking finishes and major bowl victories. The program has also been a breeding ground for NFL talent, with numerous former players making significant impacts at the professional level, such as Lamar Jackson, Teddy Bridgewater, and DeVante Parker.
The Cardinals are known for their passionate fan base, strong recruiting, and a commitment to building a competitive and respected program. As members of the ACC, Louisville consistently faces some of the toughest competition in college football, further cementing its reputation as a formidable and resilient team. The program continues to strive for excellence, aiming to build on its storied history and achieve even greater success in the future.