Chris Bell emerges as one of nations best wideouts at Miami
During Louisville’s 24-21 upset win over No. 2 Miami, wide receiver Chris Bell showed why he is in the hunt for the Biletnikoff Award.
The Cards pulled off a storybook win to regain the Howard Schnellenberger trophy and knock off the No. 2-ranked team in the country.
The offense got off to a fast start, scoring two quick touchdowns in the first quarter. As the game progressed, Louisville’s offense took a backseat to the Cardinals’ defense that stole the show. Even when the offense had no life and it seemed impossible to move the ball, quarterback Miller Moss was able to connect with Bell.
Miami couldn’t stop Bell if they triple-covered him, showing why he is one of the top receivers in this NFL draft class.
Bell showcases an athletic gift at receiver, with strong hands and an amazing ability to run after the catch.
Carrying the workload
Miami had no answer to Bell. Every drive, he was able to become invisible across the middle of the field for an easy gain. Even when they tried double and press coverage, Bell would win almost every jump ball with ease.
Totaling 136 yards and two touchdowns on nine catches, Bell had a game for the record books. It was his third consecutive 100-yard game, and he has caught a touchdown in each.
His first score came in the first quarter to extend Louisville’s lead to 14-0. Moss was able to find Bell with open room to run and showcase his blazing speed. No Hurricane defender could catch him the whole game.
Bell’s second score came early in the fourth quarter to put the Cards up by 11. This time, Bell made the catch through traffic, breaking a few tackles in the middle of the field, and galloped into the endzone. His run-after-the-catch ability separates him from most receivers in the country.
Almost 40 percent of Moss’ completions were to Bell. It was almost predictable for the Miami defense, but they still couldn’t stop him
Moss to Bell connection
The Louisville offense came into the season projected as one of the best in the country. Playmakers like Isaac Brown, Duke Watson, and Caullin Lacy were supposed to shine bright alongside their WR1 in Bell. Injuries and offensive line struggles have put this expectation on hold.
But Bell has been the one bright spot during this disappointing reality. Moss clearly has a favorite target as Bell has hauled in 44 receptions this season. This Miami game extends his streak of 130-yard-plus games to three.
Bell’s best games have come in the most important situations. In ACC play alone, Bell has a total of 441 yards for five touchdowns on 31 receptions.
Moss always makes sure Bell is his first progression in the pocket. They understand each other and know one another’s next move. Moss can guide Bell to his target, without him even breaking out of his route yet. This connection will be vital as Louisville looks to build off this momentum.
“I’m extremely proud of Chris,” said Bell postgame. “Chris has been with us the entire time. He works really hard. The last two years, someone else had more catches than him; he definitely contributed and did a great job, never complained…and now this year really taken over.”
“He has a chance to take care of his family in the long run, and we’re gonna help him do that.”
When you think of the all-time great wide receivers in Louisville history, Devante Parker, Harry Douglas, Deion Branch, and Arnold Jackson might come to mind. Bell could soon be the next great name on that list. Having over 1,800 receiving yards in his career, good for top-20 in program history, Bell is currently playing like a future NFL first-rounder. Many scouting services have him as a top-5 prospect at the position, but that might get even better.
