Parker grabs spotlight in return for U of L

Welcome back, DeVante Parker.

The University of Louisville star wide receiver enjoyed a memorable season debut. Parker had nine catches for 132 yards in U of L's 30-18 victory over NC State. This was his first game action since he was sidelined before the season with a fractured fifth metatarsal. Parker tied his career-high in receptions.

"It's great to have DeVante back," U of L coach Bobby Petrino said.

Parker returned to full practice earlier in the week. This was an encouraging sign for a Cardinals offense starving for big plays. Entering Saturday, U of L only had two 100-yard receiving games from its wide receivers – both by James Quick.

Parker immediately reminded everyone what the Cardinals have been missing. The Ballard High School product entered the game on the second down of the team's first possession. The crowd cheered in appreciation and that roar grew louder when on the team's second play from scrimmage quarterback Will Gardner hit Parker on a slant pass for a 37-yard catch-and-run.

"Everybody was happy when he caught his first catch," linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin said. "DeVante did a lot for the offense today. I can speak for the offense. They're happy to have him back."

Parker made key catches to help U of L to a 17-6 halftime lead.

Parker's reception set up U of L's game-opening touchdown drive. Parker also had long catches in the Cardinal's other two first-half scoring drives. He had a 22-yarder to set up a field goal and added a 21-yarder that led to a touchdown before the half.

Parker wasn't available to the media after the game but Gardner was happy to see Parker back on the field.

"It helps a lot," the quarterback said. "It makes the throws easier. It makes it easier on a quarterback.."

In the offseason, U of L coach Bobby Petrino said Parker "puts a smile on his face." Petrino was looking forward to showcasing Parker in his offense. Last year, Parker had 55 receptions for 885 yards and tied a school record with 12 touchdowns.

When Parker last played, he had nine catches for 142 yards and a TD in U of L's Russell Bowl victory over Miami. Saturday was his third straight game with nine catches. But even Petrino was surprised on how effective Parker was.

"He played really well," the coach said. "I was impressed with the way he ran after the catch. I thought he'd get open. I thought he'd catch the ball. But I didn't expect to see that many yards after the catch."

Contact Michael Grant at (502) 582-4069, and on Twitter @MichaelGrant_CJ.