[Farm93]

I understand 12th, but hope for something a bit better.   For a while the team will have the advantage of not having tendencies for others to see on film or use to predict likely plays.   I can see 4-8, I guess.

When the team is good the odd year schedule has given them a shot at winning the conference with the toughest programs at home and the struggling types on the road.   However, when the team is not good the odd year schedule creates a different challenge with impossible home games and the weaker programs potentially winning thanks to home field advantages.

FWIW - The media picking USC to finish #1 is so predictable, and has proven to be the wrong pick quite a lot over the last few decades.

[Farm93]

I understand 12th, but hope for something a bit better.   For a while the team will have the advantage of not having tendencies for others to see on film or use to predict likely plays.   I can see 4-8, I guess.

When the team is good the odd year schedule has given them a shot at winning the conference with the toughest programs at home and the struggling types on the road.   However, when the team is not good the odd year schedule creates a different challenge with impossible home games and the weaker programs potentially winning thanks to home field advantages.

FWIW - The media picking USC to finish #1 is so predictable, and has proven to be the wrong pick quite a lot over the last few decades.