The Lions' Pride

Right now, with the questions we have at QB and on defense, I think 9 wins will be tough. If we get 8+ wins again with the schedule I'd be happy.

Definite wins in my book:
Syracuse, Eastern Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Minnesota and Purdue

Definite losses:
OSU, UM, Nebraska

Toss-ups:
UCF, Kent State, Wisky

10-2.
Call me crazy.
^Also, Nebraska is not a definite loss. Not by any stretch.

Barring injury, this team should easily be capable of 8 wins. Unlike last year, I do not think there is any reason to fear a losing season.

As many have stated, the season will essentially boil down to the Big Four: @ OSU, Michigan, Nebraska and @ Wisconsin.

Of those four, I like our chances with the home games. If we are indeed 5-0 heading into Michigan, our guys will have a lot of confidence.

As for Nebraska, we will have two things in our favor:

1. Senior Day
2. revenge factor

@ OSU is going to be tough regardless, but we played teams tough on the road last season. Playing in Madison on the last week of the season is going to be tough unless Wisconsin's season is wrecked. They will have a revenge factor in that game, as well.

So, I'll say 9-3 for now, with 10-2 a solid possibility.

If the staff exceeded the expectations last year of a team that was supposed to have a losing record to 8 wins (easily should have been 9+), is it unreasonable to again exceed expectations of a team that most think will have 8-9 wins? If so, where does that put us?

IMO, we can beat Nebraska and Michigan. Not to say we will, but can.

For OSU, everyone writes off a loss. If I am betting, I pick OSU as well. However, we have won a couple games there recently that no one thought we would. If, and it is a big if, our QB plays very well this year, this offense can create major matchup problems with Robinson, Lewis (who I think is going to be special), James, and Carter. I also foresee ZZ bruising defenses with Belton playing slot. OSU lost most of their defense from last year (only returns 4). Our offense should have some opportunities in that game. On defense, stopping Miller will be another story but I think our offense will be the toughest matchup OSU will see this year for their defense.

I do agree with InfamousOne that an 8 win season would in no way be an acceptable goal for BOB. It is safe to say that even under last year's circumstance, he was not satisfied with 8 wins.

I'm less optimistic and feel like the loss of the senior class is going to be felt. I'm going 8-4 again with a possibility of getting to 9-3 but won't rule out a 7-5 year.