The name Harrison Bailey might ring a bell, and for good reason. This veteran quarterback, who started his college career at Tennessee, has had quite the journey. After leaving the Vols in 2021, Bailey bounced around, playing for UNLV before finally landing at Louisville. But here’s the kicker – he never saw the field for the Cardinals… until the 2024 season finale.
On New Year’s Eve, with starter Tyler Shough opting out, Bailey stepped in as the unexpected hero, leading Louisville to a stunning 35-34 victory over Washington in the Sun Bowl. The quarterback threw for 164 yards and three touchdowns, a performance so impressive it left fans and teammates beaming. In fact, he became the first Louisville QB since Teddy Bridgewater to throw 3 touchdowns in a bowl game!
Bailey, who had once been one of the most highly touted quarterbacks of his class, had a rough start to his career. Despite being a 4-star recruit, with offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Auburn, and Florida, his time at Tennessee didn’t go as planned, with just one touchdown in seven games. After a stint at UNLV, it seemed like his college career might never get the spotlight it deserved. But when his moment came at Louisville, he seized it like a true champion.
What a comeback story! After years of struggling to live up to the hype, Bailey finally delivered when his team needed him most. This Sun Bowl victory isn’t just a win on the scoreboard – it’s a defining moment in Bailey’s career, and a story of perseverance and triumph that will be remembered for years to come.
