Louisville QB Miller Moss a Game-Time Decision Against SMU

The Louisville Cardinals are preparing for a pivotal ACC matchup against the SMU Mustangs, a contest that could influence both bowl positioning and conference standings. However, the Cardinals face uncertainty at quarterback, as redshirt senior Miller Moss is dealing with an undisclosed injury and is listed as questionable for Saturday’s game.

According to Pete Nakos of On3 Sports, Moss is expected to be a game-time decision, leaving the Cardinals coaching staff with limited time to finalize their offensive game plan. The decision will ultimately determine whether Louisville can rely on its veteran signal-caller or turn to backup Brady Allen.

“Louisville QB Miller Moss is expected to be a game-time decision vs. SMU, sources tell On3 Sports,” Nakos reported.

Moss has started all 10 games this season, and his potential absence would mark his first missed game with the Cardinals. Through 10 contests, he has amassed 2,344 passing yards and 19 total touchdowns, completing 64.3% of his passes while throwing seven interceptions.

1. Moss’ Season Performance

Miller Moss transferred to Louisville from USC prior to the 2025 season, bringing experience and leadership to the Cardinals’ offense. Despite a minor dip in production compared to his USC days, he has been the centerpiece of Louisville’s passing attack. Over the course of the season, Moss has consistently delivered, averaging over 230 passing yards per game and contributing both through the air and on the ground. His 11 passing touchdowns and 8 total scores illustrate his ability to generate offense in a variety of situations. His decision to start or sit out against SMU will impact the game plan significantly, as the team has built much of its offensive identity around his skill set. The coaching staff will need to weigh both his health and the potential risk of aggravating the injury. If Moss cannot play, Louisville’s offensive rhythm will depend heavily on the ability of the backup quarterback to step up in a high-pressure environment against a top ACC competitor.

2. Backup Brady Allen

In the event Moss is sidelined, junior Brady Allen is expected to take over under center. Allen has appeared in four games this season, completing 66.7% of his passes for 69 yards and one touchdown. Although Allen’s on-field experience is limited, he has shown accuracy and composure in relief appearances, making him a viable option to manage the offense. Louisville will need to adjust its scheme to maximize his strengths while protecting him from the physical demands of a full game. The coaching staff will likely simplify the playbook and emphasize short passes and safe throws to ease Allen into the starting role, particularly against an SMU defense that can capitalize on mistakes. Allen’s performance could not only determine the outcome of this game but also provide valuable experience for Louisville’s quarterback depth chart heading into future seasons.

3. Stakes Against SMU

A win over SMU would improve Louisville to 8-3, putting the Cardinals in strong position for a prestigious bowl game. The matchup also carries implications for SMU’s own championship aspirations, making this a high-stakes contest for both programs. Louisville’s offense, whether led by Moss or Allen, will need to execute efficiently and limit turnovers to secure the victory. The presence or absence of Moss will likely dictate the team’s play-calling approach and tempo. The Cardinals’ coaching staff has signaled that they will prioritize both player safety and performance, weighing Moss’ health against the importance of the game. Fans will have to wait until game day to see if their starting quarterback will take the field. Regardless of who starts, this matchup will serve as a critical test of Louisville’s depth, resilience, and ability to respond to adversity in the ACC.