Lincoln Kienholz Named Louisville Starting Quarterback
The veteran transfer has secured the starting role for the Cardinals ahead of their ranked matchup against SMU.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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Lincoln Kienholz has been named the starting quarterback for the Louisville Cardinals. The former Ohio State backup will lead his team as they host SMU in a ranked college football showdown.
Why it matters
The transition to Kienholz provides Louisville with a dual-threat signal caller to navigate a high-stakes schedule. His leadership is expected to be a focal point against a top-20 opponent.
Kienholz enters the game having completed 34 of 50 passes for 639 yards and four touchdowns this season. He has also recorded 20 carries for 111 net yards and three rushing scores, maintaining an average of 5.5 yards per carry.
The players
Lincoln Kienholz
He is the starting quarterback for the Louisville Cardinals and a transfer from Ohio State University.
Louisville Cardinals
This is the Division I college football team representing the University of Louisville in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
SMU
This is the Southern Methodist University football program currently ranked No. 16 in the AP poll.
The details
Kienholz joins the Cardinals following three seasons at Ohio State. He has earned his current position through his ability to execute both passing plays and runs from the pocket.
Timeline
September 19, 2026, 3:30 p.m. ET: Louisville hosts SMU in a football game.
Season Trajectory
This ranked matchup against SMU acts as a pivot point for Louisville, potentially shifting their standing within the top-25 rankings. A victory would significantly improve the Cardinals' position in the playoff hunt as the college football season progresses.
With Kienholz under center, the Cardinals gain a dual-threat option that complicates opposing defensive schemes. Fantasy managers and fans should note his 5.5 yards-per-carry average, which signals a high potential for rushing production in the red zone.
The takeaway
Kienholz brings a seasoned, versatile presence to the Louisville offense after years of development in a high-level system. His ability to extend plays will be tested against the SMU defense.
Further reading
For more on team performance and roster updates, visit Louisville Football.
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