Louisville RB Isaac Brown uses football to cope with loss of uncle

Louisville’s standout running back Isaac Brown is known for his reserved demeanor. However, when he steps onto the field, his performance speaks volumes. During his first two college seasons, Brown amassed 11 100-yard rushing games. Injuries plagued him in the previous season, prompting the Cardinals to be cautious of him during spring and fall camp.

His junior campaign started sluggishly, with only 36 yards on 16 carries against Ole Miss and 33 yards on nine carries against Wake Forest. Brown appeared distant from his usual self. Grief can profoundly affect a person.

He disclosed to the Courier Journal that he has been grappling with the loss of his uncle Vernon Jefferson, who passed away on August 2nd. Brown remarked, “I was a bit down,” adding that he kept his grief to himself as he didn’t want others involved in his personal matters. Football became a medium for him to process the loss and regain his composure.

In a game against NC State, Brown showcased a resurgence, breaking a 70-yard touchdown run and amassing 125 rushing yards. He had previously contributed 100 rushing yards combined in the preceding two games.

Brown’s performance against Florida State on Friday night was particularly remarkable. Struggling with the Cardinals’ 14-0 deficit, safety Kaleb Beasley made a tackle for loss at the 2-yard line, prompting Louisville to initiate their offense. Brown had a straightforward path through FSU’s defense. He darted to the left side, sidestepped a tackle, and sprinted 97 yards for the end zone.

This wasn’t just his longest run; it was the longest touchdown in Louisville’s history. Louisville coach Jeff Brohm praised Brown’s hard work and impactful plays.

Brown received support from his teammates on the gridiron, with an offensive line that opened gaps and the running back corps offering diverse contributions. Florida State suffered as three of Louisville’s running backs crossed the goal line. Marquise Davis tied the game at 14 with a 3-yard touchdown run just before halftime, and Braxton Jennings scored a 44-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, extending Louisville’s lead to 35-14.

The Cardinals concluded with 397 rushing yards following quarterback Lincoln Kienholz’s three consecutive kneel downs, resulting in a 22-point triumph over the Seminoles.

Though Brown is still mourning the loss of his uncle, he is learning to navigate his emotions day by day and utilize football as a coping mechanism. Brown commented, “It was a bit hard knowing that you lost an uncle who used to support you—so I had to do what he wanted me to do.”