Bobby Petrino gets new seven-year deal from Louisville football

Louisville and head football coach Bobby Petrino on Thursday agreed to a new seven-year deal that keeps the 55-year-old Petrino with the Cardinals through 2023.

Petrino led the Cardinals to an 8-5 record and a win in the Music City Bowl over Texas A&M last season

"I do like where we are at right now," Petrino told wlyk.com. "I really think that as a program we are making strides in the right direction. Academically, our guys are graduating at the end of their eligibility. ... I think that's something that's important and something that's been different my second time back," Petrino added.

Petrino becomes the third highest paid coach in the ACC behind Clemson's Dabo Swinney and Florida State's Jimbo Fisher. According to reports, the deal is worth $30.6 million.

Since returning to Louisville two years ago, Petrino has worked his magic leading the Cardinals to a 17-9 record and a pair of bowl bids.

He previously led the Cardinals from 2003 to 2006 and in each season Louisville went to a bowl game.

"I love the growth of this program," athletic director Tom Jurich said. "I love how the young kids are developing. I love how our old kids are graduating."