There is a fair amount of negativity going around the board. I understand that the last few months were a bit of a disappointment with recruiting. The negativity seems to have carried over to expectations for next. I've accurately predicted the record for the last two seasons (not that that counts for much), but I think I can judge the team in general terms.
I see us improving in some key places. I think we might lose a step in the passing game, but given the combination of offensive system and a QB who fits it, overall we will see more consistent production there. I think our defense will continue to be very good with the talent shifting a little from the DL to the starting LBs and DBs. Our running back situation is awesome. I expect our o-line to be better (though I could be wrong). Even if it isn't better, I expect the system will make blocking easier on the line.
I think all of that, and an easier schedule adds up to 8 or 9 wins next season. Less obviously if we have any key injuries at think positions and more if everything comes together. I remember 2005 when we were going into a season with our leading WR from the year before playing our QB. We surprised a lot of people that year, including me. I could see 2016 being a year when PSU surprises some teams and beats expectations.
I see us improving in some key places. I think we might lose a step in the passing game, but given the combination of offensive system and a QB who fits it, overall we will see more consistent production there. I think our defense will continue to be very good with the talent shifting a little from the DL to the starting LBs and DBs. Our running back situation is awesome. I expect our o-line to be better (though I could be wrong). Even if it isn't better, I expect the system will make blocking easier on the line.
I think all of that, and an easier schedule adds up to 8 or 9 wins next season. Less obviously if we have any key injuries at think positions and more if everything comes together. I remember 2005 when we were going into a season with our leading WR from the year before playing our QB. We surprised a lot of people that year, including me. I could see 2016 being a year when PSU surprises some teams and beats expectations.
