Amber Aniston • December 31, 2024

Louisville Edges Washington in a Sun Bowl Thriller, 35-34

The Louisville Cardinals ended their season on a high note, narrowly defeating the Washington Huskies 35-34 in a thrilling Sun Bowl showdown at Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas. Despite a valiant comeback attempt by Washington, Louisville’s defense held strong in the final seconds, denying a two-point conversion to seal the victory. 


This victory marked Louisville’s first bowl win under head coach Jeff Brohm and capped off a season of resilience and growth for the Cardinals, who finished with a 9-4 record. For Washington, the loss closed out a 6-7 campaign under first-year head coach Jedd Fisch, as the Huskies fell short in their bid for a comeback victory. 

 


A Fast Start and a Tight Finish 

The game began with fireworks as Louisville’s defense set the tone early. On Washington’s opening drive, cornerback Tahveon Nicholson intercepted a pass and returned it 21 yards for a touchdown, giving the Cardinals a 7-0 lead. The Huskies quickly responded with a 40-yard touchdown pass from freshman quarterback Demond Williams Jr. to wide receiver Giles Jackson, tying the game at 7-7. 


Louisville found its rhythm in the second quarter, with quarterback Harrison Bailey leading the offense. Bailey, who started in place of NFL-bound Tyler Shough, threw two touchdown passes to Caullin Lacy and Antonio Meeks. Meanwhile, Washington’s offense kept pace, with Williams connecting with Jackson for a 49-yard touchdown and rushing for another score, tying the game at 21-21 just before halftime. 


In the third quarter, Louisville regained control with a 21-yard touchdown pass from Bailey to tight end Nate Kurisky. Lacy added an 8-yard rushing touchdown early in the fourth quarter, extending Louisville’s lead to 35-21. 

 


Washington’s Comeback Attempt 

Down by 14 points, Washington staged a dramatic rally in the game’s final minutes. Williams found Jackson for a 31-yard touchdown with 3:42 remaining, cutting the deficit to 35-28. After forcing a Louisville punt, the Huskies orchestrated a last-minute drive, with Williams throwing a one-yard touchdown pass to Jackson—his fourth of the game—with just nine seconds remaining. 


Opting to go for the win rather than the tie, Washington attempted a two-point conversion. However, linebacker Antonio Watts broke up Williams’ pass in the end zone, preserving the victory for Louisville and sparking celebrations on the Cardinals’ sideline. 



Standout Performances 

Harrison Bailey shone in his first start of the season, completing 16 of 25 passes for 164 yards and three touchdowns. His composure and accuracy earned him Sun Bowl MVP honors, as he became the first Louisville quarterback to throw three touchdown passes in a bowl game since Teddy Bridgewater in 2013. 


Caullin Lacy was a dual-threat weapon for the Cardinals, recording a receiving touchdown and a rushing score in his first game since October. Louisville’s running back duo of Isaac Brown and Duke Watson combined for 182 rushing yards, providing balance to the Cardinals’ offense. 


For Washington, Demond Williams Jr. delivered an outstanding performance, throwing for 374 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for an additional score. Giles Jackson set a Sun Bowl record with four receiving touchdowns on 11 catches for 161 yards, showcasing his playmaking ability despite the loss. 


Louisville’s defense played a pivotal role in the victory, recording five sacks and 10 tackles for loss. Defensive tackle Jordan Guerad earned Defensive MVP honors with six tackles, including two for loss and a sack. 

 


Key Moments 

The game was defined by crucial plays on both sides of the ball. Nicholson’s pick-six in the first quarter set the tone for Louisville, while Washington’s inability to capitalize on early opportunities allowed the Cardinals to maintain control. 


The two-point conversion attempt in the final seconds epitomized the drama of the Sun Bowl. Williams’ decision to target Jackson, who had been unstoppable all game, was well-defended by Louisville’s secondary, with Watts making the game-saving play. 



Historical Context 

The Sun Bowl marked the first-ever meeting between Louisville and Washington, as well as Louisville’s first trip to the Sun Bowl since 1958. The victory extended Louisville’s bowl win streak to three games and highlighted the program’s resilience in the face of adversity. 


Washington, on the other hand, faced challenges throughout the season, including an 0-7 record away from home. Despite a strong offensive showing, the Huskies struggled defensively, allowing 371 yards to a shorthanded Louisville squad. 


 

Looking Ahead 

Louisville enters the offseason with momentum, having finished the year on a three-game winning streak. With key contributors like Harrison Bailey and Isaac Brown returning, the Cardinals are poised for continued success under Brohm’s leadership. Their 2025 season opener against Eastern Kentucky offers an opportunity to build on this season’s progress. 


Washington faces questions as they prepare for Fisch’s second season. The Huskies must address defensive inconsistencies and build around young talents like Williams and Jackson. Their opener against Colorado State will provide a chance to reset and start fresh. 



A Game to Remember 

Louisville’s 35-34 victory over Washington in the Sun Bowl showcased the intensity and unpredictability that make college football so captivating. From record-breaking performances to a dramatic final play, the game delivered excitement and highlighted the determination of both teams. 


For Louisville, the win serves as a testament to their resilience and a foundation for future success. For Washington, the loss is a reminder of the fine margins in football and the importance of finishing strong. 

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