re: Expectations

Disclaimer: I haven't watched any practices and do not know anybody who personally has.

I think we will be better on offense and defense, but take a step back in the kicking game on special teams. How much different we will be in these areas is total speculation at this point.

The players seem to be confident in the team and coaches, which is a good thing.

I think 9 regular season wins is an attainable goal. Sure, the team has some question marks at some spots. But so does every other team in our division.

I just like the roster alot for this year, but maybe I'm overestimating what is there. Plenty of weapons on offense. I'm somewhat concerned about the OL, but I have confidence in Turner there to put a competent unit out on the field. I think the LBs will be better and we will generate a strong pass rush.

Alot comes down to how you feel about Knight. If you think he can direct Mazzone's offense, we will be fine. If you think he's gonna turn the ball over, not get us into the correct play at the line, etc., then there is reason for pessimism. I'm in the camp that he will be a competent game manager, not trying to win the game on his own. I think that is what we need to get to 9.

One thing is for sure. We'll know pretty early in the season what this team is all about. UCLA will have fine athletes. If we win and look like we know what we are doing on offense and defense, I'll feel good about 9. If we lose that one, we are probably more like 7 wins.