Louisville defensive back Anthony Conner made an emotional return to the Cardinals’ locker room prior to the UL’s 27-10 win over Syracuse.
Conner broke his neck in last week’s game against Rutgers when his head collided with Scarlet Knights receiver Mohamed Sanu’s right knee in the second quarter. Conner had successful surgery on his neck on Monday and was able to see his teammates for the first time since the injury prior to the game.
“He still has a long recovery, but it’s so good to just see him,” Louisville head coach Charlie Strong said to reporters following the game. “I gave him the game ball today. We’re going to win because of AC. Everyone’s playing for AC right now and that’s what it’s all about.”
Riding the emotion from the pre-game warmups, the Cardinals scored twice in their first three possessions and completely dominated the Orange from start to finish. Louisville won back-to-back conference games for the first time since the 2006 season.
“It just inspired us,” quarterback Teddy Bridgewater said.
The fans also got a chance to see Conner after the first quarter and they gave him a rousing ovation. He was brought out on a golf cart, and was able to stand and wave to the fans in the crowd.
“When he came out onto the field it was a great feeling,” safety Hakeem Smith said. “Everything we did was for him.”
