The Courier-Journal (Louisville)
Former Gibson Southern QB remains patient
EVANSVILLE — Brady Allen knows the easy route would be anchored by frustration.
He finished his high school career at Gibson Southern as one of the top quarterbacks in recent state history. Look at the numbers or his accolades following his senior season. They foretold of more success down the road for the consensus 4-star recruit.
But across two seasons at two schools, Allen has attempted only four passes. That's OK in his mind.
Allen is now a redshirt sophomore at Louisville, nearly three years removed from leading Gibson Southern to a state championship. The path has not always been linear, but his focus remains the same: get better each day for when or if the opportunity arrives.
“I'm trying to control what I can and be ready,” he said. “There's a lot of guys playing on Sundays who didn't play early. I'm trying to stay patient as I can and not get frustrated.”
Few from Southwestern Indiana could rival his high school résumé. The 6-foot-6 quarterback threw for 11,918 career yards and 149 touchdowns. Those are second and first, respectively, in IHSAA state history. Allen led the Titans to the Class 3A state title in 2021 with a comeback victory against Brebeuf. He was named Indiana Mr. Football the following month.
His first collegiate year, a redshirt, was spent at Purdue before entering the transfer portal. He followed coach Jeff Brohm to Louisville in May of 2023 following spring practice. Last year saw Allen continuing to adapt to the college game and Brohm's system.
He credits learning from Jack Plummer and others in the quarterback room for his expanded knowledge.
“Having the same coaching staff that I did my freshman year at Purdue made it easy,” said Allen. “I wasn't walking into a new playbook. Being close to home was nice. I took a lot of things I learned last year that are carrying me into this year.”
The Gibson Southern grad has seen the field twice in his career. He completed 1 of 3 passes in 2022 for Purdue against Indiana State. Allen attempted one pass, a seven-yard completion, versus Murray State last season.
The quarterback room is still competitive. Tyler Shough, a transfer from Texas Tech, is the presumed starter going into the fall. Brohm didn't commit to an official backup when speaking with reporters earlier this month but said Pierce Clarkson is likely the next guy with Allen and others right there.
“Sometimes you kind of gage and see what are certain strengths of each player," Brohm said. "I wouldn't be surprised if we have those packages ready this year for different quarterbacks. And then unfortunately, if someone goes down, like your starter, the next guy has to be ready to go in there and win a game for you.”
Louisville went 10-4 last season and ranked in the top 20 with a loss to Southern California in the Holiday Bowl. The Cardinals open this year at home against Austin Peay on August 31. Allen believes he had a strong spring and continues to prepare.
“Just being confident and trusting myself,” said Allen. “I've been in the offense for almost three years now. I'm learning football more and more. The big thing is trusting myself, going out and playing and enjoying the game.”
Allen spent a recent weekend as a staff member for Zaire Franklin's football camp at Central High School. A familiar sight came afterward with the quarterback, even a backup, signing autographs or taking pictures for anyone who requested one. It's why his message for those campers remains the same for him.
Remain patient and ready. One doesn't know when an opportunity will present itself.
"The college game is definitely a lot more different than the high school game," said Allen. "I'm getting used to the speed and the difference in athlete. I'm trying to stay patient and get ready each and every day. Be ready whenever that shot comes.”