The Cardinals coach opened Monday's news conference by announcing that Bonnafon's father, Wallace, had died. The school said that Wallace Bonnafon died from heart failure but did not provide and other details. Petrino, who said he spoke with Reggie Bonnafon before addressing the media, did not say what the quarterback's availability will be Saturday when Louisville (2-1) plays at Florida International (1-2).
The coach asked that "everybody's prayers and thoughts go to Reggie and his family. ... It's certainly going to be a trying time."
On the field, Petrino says sophomore starter Will Gardner needs to play better after his shaky performance in a loss at Virginia.