Brotherly love: Kamran reflects

When the two were younger, Kamran and Hunter Joyer played middle school football together.

Kamran, being two years older, was still stronger and able to push around younger Hunter. During one practice, the two brothers were called to go against one another in a hitting drill.

“I put him on his back,” Kamran said with a bit of a grin. “I remind him every once in a while.”

Though Kamran got the pancake, he also received a cut on his shin when Hunter’s cleat flew in the air and sliced into his leg. The scar is still noticeable, and the two brothers are still playing football, albeit on separate teams as the Florida Gators and Lousiville Cardinals prepare to play in the Sugar Bowl on Wednesday night.

Earlier Monday, Hunter Joyer spoke about the influence Kamran had on him playing football. Later, Kamran spoke about what it will be like to look across the sidelines of the Superdome and see his young brother there.

“It’s going to be crazy,” Kamran said. “I’m going to look over there and see my little brother. We’ve grown up together. It’s going to be crazy to go over there and see him.”

Unlike Hunter, whose job is to lead a one-man escort for Gators running back Mike Gillislee, Kamran is tasked with protecting Louisville quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.

Bridgewater has drawn praise from Gators coach Will Muschamp, who continually has stated that Louisville goes as Bridgewater goes. That means Kamran’s job will be particularly important.

Needing a win against Rutgers to secure the Big East, Louisville relied on an injured Bridgewater to lead the team. Bridgewater had just enough. Despite dealing with a sprained ankle and broken wrist, he helped lead Louisville to victory.

Florida poses a more formidable defense than Rutgers. Though Bridgewater has healed during the time off, it is critical Louisville’s offensive line is able to keep him upright and protected.

Kamran is hoping he can get a few more pancakes similar to the one he teases his younger brother about from time to time. As the two prepare for Wednesday’s game, Kamran has let Hunter know that is just what he plans to do.

“There’s been a little bit of trash talking going back and forth,” Kamran said. “Nothing serious though, just a little fun.”

Perhaps the most serious issue facing the Joyer family is which team to root for. With one brother patrolling each sideline, Kirsten and John Joyer, the brothers’ parents, have a tough decision to make.

However, Kamran believes the rest of the family will figure it out.

“Half Louisville and half Gators,” Kamran said.