Concrete Reasons for Optimism - Is it Enough?

[Chip]

I think our ceiling is the 2019 Duke Louisville Wake stretch. The fact that it took 12 weeks to figure things out is a bit worrisome. That plus the fact that we looked like crap again to start 2020. During that stretch to end 2019 we went 2-1 scored 36.3 ppg offensively 448.6 ypg 206.3 pypg 242.3 rypg. Interesting that TD was a non factor in all three of those games. We need to run the ball and we need a QB to manage the game. A QB who doesn't make mistakes (that includes sacks), can move the chains, and keeps the D honest with both his arm and legs. We don't need a great passer or gunslinger.

And that was after we finally did what Cavanaugh wanted. Moved Vet to center, Servais outside, started Bergeron, and the quitter/whiffer Alexander left.

It was an instant upgrade to the OL. I thought it would carry over to 2020, but it didn’t. The line had so many issues. But Vet really struggled at C. No Dakota, Servais played hurt. No backups or depth. It was such a disaster.

This year just has to be different. Just be average. Please and thank you.

 

[tipphill]

** mods please move to football forum, my fault

Screw it, need an upbeat thread.

QB competition will inevitably force the cream to rise to the top and catalyze any hidden potential these guys may have. Also, it should allow time for Jacobian and Justin to develop further. Say what you will but Morgan had moments last year that looked promising considering the dumpster fire situation he was thrown into.

The O line is reasonably healthy and returning experience. Servais has a chance to end his career on a strong note being the captain of a more stalwart line. Big hopes for our bezerker Bergeron.

Wide Receiver can only get better. Taj can be a real star, and imo has a higher upside than Trishton Jackson. If he just focuses his energy I see no reason he can’t be Amba like assuming the ball has time to get to him. Queely, Courtney, Javontar, Alford etc will each have their chances. We’re dangerous if Lutz and Pena can be incorporated as well.

Our running backs are back to being formidable. That’s where Cuse makes the magic happen.

The whole key to this year is sustained drives. Keep the defense off the field and fresh. White’s D will be ready and angry. Mikel Jones is a good leader and our boys stick hits. Just can’t have them on the field twice as much as the O

i hope the coaching is significantly improved.

 

[SUFaninNJ]

I guess it depends on what each person decides as their definition of “optimism.” Optimism for one might mean 7-8 wins, while to another it could mean being bowl eligible. Someone else might view it as winning 5 games but not being blown out. I usually lean towards being a glass half full kind of guy. I think last year was a confluence of bad things. I feel the team will be more successful this year. How many wins that translates to, I don’t know. My guess is 5 or 6. I guess we’ll soon see.