Offensive and defensive impact players at Louisville

Upsetting the 20th-ranked Louisville Cardinals on Friday night, we award the offensive and defensive players who made an impact in the win on Friday night.

Offensive impact player: Adam Randall

There should be no surprise who would be the selection for the offensive impact award. Randall was spectacular in the 20-19 win over the 20th-ranked Louisville. As a converted wide receiver who has been playing at the running back position for less than a year, Randall showcased all of his skills on Friday night with his speed, pass-catching skills, patience in the running game, and overall athleticism. Randall finished with 105 rushing yards on 15 carries with an average of seven yards per carry and reached the end zone twice on the ground. As a threat in the passing game too, Randall also hauled in three catches for 27 yards (nine yards per catch).

In 10 games this season, Randall has been the featured back next to Cade Klubnik. Carrying the rock for 131 carries, Randall has 675 rushing yards (5.2 yards per carry) and eight rushing touchdowns on the 2025 season. Catching 29 passes for 239 receiving yards (8.2 yards per catch), Randall has added three more touchdowns via the air this season.

Defensive impact player: Sammy Brown

Recording 11 total tackles (four solo tackles), the sophomore linebacker was flying around the field once again for Tom Allen’s defense. 11 tackles tied his season high; Brown last recorded 11 tackles in the season opener against LSU. The Commerce, Georgia, native also recorded two tackles for loss, including one sack.

For the season, Brown has accumulated 78 total tackles (41 solo tackles), four sacks, one forced fumble, and two passes defensed.

Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist Avieon Terrell also had a great game with seven total tackles (three solo tackles), one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.

Randall and Brown were big reasons the Tigers were able to pull off the upset on the road against the Cardinals.