I really don't like saying one play decided the game, but how big was that blocked field goal at the start of the first quarter? I think that set the tone the rest of the way and Louisville never really could get back into it.
Which goes to show how important it is to make those types of plays. What's unfortunate is that the Utes faced a similar situation against Oregon. They had blocked a punt, then scored and forced the Ducks into a quick three and out before their offense failed to get anything going. Had the Utes capitalized on that big play, they're 4-0 right now and certainly in the top-15.
But that just goes to show how important it is to capitalize on mistakes and plays like the blocked field goal. Good teams do that, bad teams don't. When Utah stopped the Cardinals from scoring on that drive, then went down and scored themselves, the game was pretty much over. Even if there was still three and a half quarters left to play.
It'll be interesting to see if we look back on that play as the turning point to this season. Hopefully.
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