This game will be a very good game of evaluating whether indeed we have developed a new and higher standard.
If so then we will dominate, and the ability to get reps to depth against a still quality opponent in the second half. OR we will fall victim to listening in how great we are. Well not we... but our players. My belief is that there is now a core group of upperclassmen who have shown the path. It's something coaches want more than anything, but it's something only players can do. Greatness only comes with accountability. And true accountability comes from the guy nest to you, and the shame that comes with being the weakest link. I think we are very close to this place now. With the young talent pushing the physical side of talent, and a new accountability building more and more as leaders demand more of their teammates.
This game will let us know whether or not we can play to a new higher standard? As I am fervently hoping. It will be hard not to fall back to some degree emotionally. IF we truly have raised the bar to a higher standard, it will be apparent in the lack of, or the perfection of consistently high levels of error free play. IF we have raised the bar. there will be nearly no starters playing in the 4th quarter, and we will get a glimmer of Malik. Not necessarily because the offense was so potent, but because the defense was relentless. I want to see discipline and consistency. THAT more than anything will let us know if we have indeed raised the bar.