A New Chapter in Louisville
Former Ohio State quarterback Lincoln Kienholz has rapidly emerged as one of the standout performers in college football during the 2026 season. After spending three years in Columbus, Kienholz transferred to Louisville last winter, a move that has already yielded significant dividends for his development under Cardinals head coach Jeff Brohm. Through his first three starts of the 2026 campaign, Kienholz has showcased a dual-threat capability that has positioned Louisville as a potential College Football Playoff contender.
According to AtoZ Sports, Kienholz has completed 66 percent of his passes for 816 yards, six touchdowns, and zero interceptions. His impact extends to the ground game, where he has contributed 153 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, solidifying his role as a versatile asset for the Cardinals’ offense.
Reflecting on His Ohio State Tenure
Despite his departure, Kienholz maintains a strong connection to his former program. Speaking on ESPN’s College GameDay ahead of Louisville’s Week 4 matchup against Wake Forest, Kienholz described his time at Ohio State as a “blessing.” He credited head coach Ryan Day and the Buckeyes’ competitive environment for his preparation, noting that practicing against elite talent daily helped shape his leadership skills.
In a sentiment that resonated with fans, Kienholz recently echoed a famous line from Joe Burrow, who previously transitioned from Ohio State to LSU. As reported by Big Red Louie, Kienholz stated: “I went to school at Ohio State; I play football at Louisville.” This remark has been widely received as a nod to his growth, acknowledging his academic and early athletic roots in Columbus while fully embracing his current role as the leader of the Louisville offense.
Looking Ahead
The early success of the Kienholz-Brohm partnership has generated significant optimism in Louisville. While the Cardinals opened their season with a narrow loss to Ole Miss, the team has since secured two consecutive wins, and Kienholz’s efficiency—particularly his zero-interception start—suggests a high level of comfort within the system. As the 2026 season progresses, the focus will remain on whether Kienholz can sustain this production against tougher conference opponents and guide Louisville toward a post-season berth.