Louisville's Johnny Patrick (#19) will be on the field when heated rival Kentucky travels to Papa John's Stadium September 4th
Louisville’s star CB Johnny Patrick was reminded today that you never argue with your girlfriend even if you know you are right. Back on June 27th, Patrick’s girlfriend slipped and fell while struggling to grab his cell phone to see his text messages. As a result of the fall, she hit a table injuring her knees and elbows. Despite the fit of domestic rage, Patrick contacted emergency personnel because he was concerned about her well-being. Upon arrival, his girlfriend was treated for injuries and he was rewarded with a set of cop locks courtesy of the Louisville Metro Police. On June 28th, he pleaded not guilty to assault charges and was released on his own recognizance with a stay away order from his girlfriend. His next court date is scheduled for Tuesday, July 13th (incidentally, Patrick will be in court on July 12th for driving on a suspended license).
First year head coach Charlie Strong was informed of the incident but did not comment as he is waiting for the disposition of the criminal cases. Strong is a no-nonsense coach and made it very clear that his players must be disciplined. However, the boosters made it very clear that the Cardinals cannot lose to Kentucky for a third straight year. Louisville will host Kentucky to open the season on September 4th. Regardless of how Patrick’s criminal fate plays out, there is no way Strong will keep Louisville’s best defensive player off of the field especially with no depth or experience in the secondary.
On a side note, Patrick’s attorney stated his girlfriend will request to drop the charges. However, according to the US Attorney’s office, they will continue to investigate the case regardless if the complainant requests the charges be dropped. The US Attorney’s office is treating this as a domestic violence case and will pursue it accordingly. If Patrick walks, he better appreciate his second chance as he has the speed and agility to play on Sundays.
