I’m mostly with the optimists like BobK, Relself and Bampa.
I think this could be a suprisingly good season. One data point that supports the injury theory (excuse?) for 2021: let’s not forget that the 2021 squad started 3-2 with monster wins over USC and Oregon. Just imagine what the season could have been like if the team that started 3-2 had been available to play for the rest of the season?
As for the switch to the 4-3 defense, it feels like a crazy time to announce that because the dline tank has never been so empty in terms of returning production, but hopefilly the youngsters can surprise us. To me the switch to a 4-3 feels overdue — teams have been tearing up our front 7 for years (forever) and it felt like we just didn’t have the bulk up front to face an Alabama, not that I aee that happening anytime soon. But I like the new direction and to some degree it may be a multiyear journey where our 4-3 helps us recruit more of the right kinds of d linemen.
I think this could be a suprisingly good season. One data point that supports the injury theory (excuse?) for 2021: let’s not forget that the 2021 squad started 3-2 with monster wins over USC and Oregon. Just imagine what the season could have been like if the team that started 3-2 had been available to play for the rest of the season?
As for the switch to the 4-3 defense, it feels like a crazy time to announce that because the dline tank has never been so empty in terms of returning production, but hopefilly the youngsters can surprise us. To me the switch to a 4-3 feels overdue — teams have been tearing up our front 7 for years (forever) and it felt like we just didn’t have the bulk up front to face an Alabama, not that I aee that happening anytime soon. But I like the new direction and to some degree it may be a multiyear journey where our 4-3 helps us recruit more of the right kinds of d linemen.