Rebuttal to your rebuttal: the defensive fall-off will be slight, as Gary may be better than Malik, and some combo of Roach/Wheeler/McCulloch may be superior in Year Two of Orlandos system. Tim Beck’s role in playcalling seems to be reduced, and Hand looks to have more influence over the offensive philosophy. Add to that: Young and Toniel no longer freshmen + Anderson-anchored OL + Ehlinger not being a true freshman and we should have a significantly improved unit. The offense is on Mensa, and he knows that. I understand the pessimism on the football board, but those who follow recruiting should be starting to see the light. Excited to see guys like Sterns&Foster LLC, Josh Thompson, Taquon, and Cosmi get significant minutes.
Just think after these years in the desert how sweet it’ll be: easier playoff path with BagODicks gone, rain on Jimbo Aggins Shire party, recruiting the next few years creates a monster program a la Clemson, and success dovetails into the stadium expansion, with Del Conte advocating. Boys, let’s fucking eat.