Instant Analysis | Louisville 28, Syracuse 6

Play of the game: It seems so bland but it was huge for Louisville -- Brandon Radcliff's nine-yard run on third-and-short in the first quarter that kept Louisville's first scoring drive alive. The Cards needed Radcliff's energy tonight, and he gave it, running for 100-plus yards for the second consecutive week.

Turning point: There were quite a few moments of ineptitude for Syracuse's offense that I could point out. There was the first-and-goal at the Louisville 2 that Syracuse blew, running two trick plays and committing a few penalties. Ultimately the Orange faced third down from the Louisville 19 and settled for a field goal.

MVP: I don't see how it could be anyone but Gerod Holliman. The Louisville safety has been as good as any defensive player in the country so far this season, and he added to his national lead in interceptions with his seventh pick of the season. On that play, Holliman was in coverage, coming over from his safety spot to pick up the outside receiver. He stopped following the route at the perfect time, turning and finding the ball and making a tough catch.

He was also responsible for two of Louisville's points, tripping up Syracuse running back Adonis Ameen-Moore in the end zone for a safety in the first half.

Surprise: There's usually progress for teams by now. It's October. Louisville's played six games. Syracuse has played five. But there didn't seem to be much improvement on either side in this game. Louisville's offensive line wasn't quite as porous as it usually is, but a slew of bone-headed penalties more than made up for that.

Takeaway: It was clear that Bobby Petrino's trying to do something to spur his offense. Louisville ran what felt like a million different formations and looks on offense. The Cards got Brandon Radcliff the ball, and he was effective again. But what can they really take away from this game other than a win?

The defense again looked like it's one of the best units in the nation. That's not a surprise or a new development. But maybe this is what Louisville fans should expect the rest of the way. The defense can win Louisville a few more games if the offense can just score a few touchdowns and avoid colossal mistakes or meltdowns like the Virginia game. But I don't think that'll satisfy the fans who wanted to see more offensive fireworks this year.