Ledford, Avery Pleased with Focus After Day 7

LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The University of Louisville football program has had its share of up-and-downs over the last few weeks.

The current debate surrounding college football has taken a toll on the players, but one thing the players haven't done is stop working.

The Cardinals finished their seventh practice of the fall on Tuesday, with eyes on the Sept. 12 opener versus Western Kentucky. With the news coming out this afternoon, no one can predict if the Cardinals will take the field that day, but the Cardinals have kept their focus.

"The guys came out and they were eager to get back out on the field," UofL offensive coordinator Dwayne Ledford said on Tuesday. "That's been a great thing about these kids. When we separated for the quarantine, they wanted to get back. They did everything that we asked them to do in order for us to get back. Since we've been back, they've done exactly what we've asked with protocols. And they're just wanting to play football. It was fun out there and we had a very good practice today. Guys we're going fast and a lot of the energy out there."

The Cardinals have taken to social media emphasizing their willingness to take the field and play. Senior linebacker C.J. Avery was among the many to quickly join the 'We Want To Play' movement, in hopes of using their voice to persuade the powers who are making the decisions.

"This team, we know that we have to work no matter what," Avery said. "Regardless if we play or not, we're going to be ready, so that's how we we're approaching this situation."

One of the seniors on the defense, Avery has been one of the team leaders who has helped the Cardinals continue to provide the leadership through these trying times of uncertainty.

"I think that just comes from within with leaders of the team," he said. "We walk around and have a smile on our face, and help bring energy, the young guys will follow. That's really what we've been preaching to ourselves. Our leadership group, we just make sure we keep the team up. We've made sure the energy is right, that the vibe is right around the building so that's really all it's been."

As the opening game looms closer, Avery knows the players do have strong voices in the game, but understands these decisions are out of their hands, but hopes his opinion can be heard.

"I do feel like the players are being listened to," Avery said. "I think strength in numbers, when players are together, when everybody wants the same thing, I think that speaks volumes. I think the players will be listened to."

University of Louisville Athletics

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