As for the players... most are young, but talented and are in a position to contribute. They all are having to deal with some significant changes.

The coaches... there's not much of a question about how good they are, but how fast can they install their offense with the current players is another story. It's not like the cupboard is empty.

First order of business is to see which QBs are in the conversation for this fall. Evans, Lawson, Motley, Jackson, and Durkin. Honestly I think the first four mentioned have the best chance, and Jackson will probably RS, but he's a coaches son. Like everyone else I'm very excited to see Evans in action. Will Lawson be ready to compete? Will Motley? I really don't know about Durkin... seems like we may need TEs more than a #3 or #4 QB. We also don't know if there will be a package for Durkin... if Fuente does anything like on offense.

WRs... we will need several tFr step in and play right away. Ford and Phillips will be solid, but it sounds like VT will be running many more offensive plays per game and there's no way Ford and Phillips can be on the field the entire time.

RBs... Other than McMillian, we really don't know how ready the other RBs are. McClease may be next up, because he hasn't been injured, but a healthy McKenzie would help the situation quite a bit. I haven't forgotten about Marshawn, but I would expect to see Peoples get in on the action before Marshawn. Does Fuente like to use heavier TBs?

How will Rogers and Hodges be used by Fuente??

I'm assuming the OL will continue to improve... they aren't in a bad situation, but learning a new offense, with a new OL coach will also slow things down... at least this spring.

Then there's the defensive side. Basically I'm expecting it to be marginally better than last season, but some of those Fr were poised to be very good when the game slowed down for them. A lot of FR got significant game experience.

The players we did lose on defense... DL experience mostly may hurt, but with Settle and some of the back-ups who have been playing for a year or two should ease into starting roles quite easily.

We also don't know how much attrition there will be after spring practice. That's what makes predicting anything right now, next to impossible.

I'm bullish on this team so 9-3 is my prediction. The schedule is tough, and it is the first time Fuente has faced most of these teams. That makes a difference, but our opponents are at the same disadvantage.

I guess I shouldn't be disappointed with a 7-5 or 8-4 record, but for me it isn't only about the wins and losses in year one of Fuente's tenure. An improved offense will go a long way to take the sting out of a 7-5 record, especially if 2017 looks bright.