For the last 8 years, we have looked like we were still trying to learn the first page of the playbook in November. That was a result of $#!+ coaches accepting mediocre players, and mediocre results. That MUST change immediately. I want to see progression EVERY WEEK. When was the last time we saw them actually get better as the season progressed? We always got worse, because our coaches sucked, the training sucked, the practices sucked, etc. Everything about the program sucked. From Foley down to the equipment managers, we sucked.
Another reason why we always regressed, was as the season went, the rest of our opponents improved, and we had nothing to offer that surprised anyone with regards coaching or scheme (don't remind me, I realize Mullen's history... and I am very concerned. I am hoping he evolves, or our new recruits come in and shock the world).
I just want to see our continuous regression reversed this year. I'm not expecting many wins, but I do expect to see a tougher, hungrier, more disciplined, and IMPROVING team as the season progresses. Do we have top-tier elite talent all over the roster? No. But we do have enough talent to make major improvements, and compete with just about any other team. If I see that, I will feel like we are finally on the right track. We should know something definitive by the bye week.