Wish I could share your optimism, but to be honest, I don't think much of this roster especially and specifically at QB and the LOS on both sides of the ball. Maybe we do have the quality of talent and it's simply a matter of coaching and conditioning, but I guess my battered vol syndrome won't let me believe. I've watched every change since Dickey was given the job and remain convinced that a roster must be turned over. I don't see a quick turn around. Instead, I consider it to be at least two full recruiting classes before a team begins to transition into what it will be under the new coaching staff. Realistically, a change of mindset and culture likely will take far longer. I'm not buying the Vols right now. I'm seeing another losing season next year. Maybe a bowl in 2019.
Stating the obvious here, but the next hire is critical. We need a man of great inner strength and character who will get the respect from these players. He needs to be a what you see is what you get kind of guy. A coach who will treat every player exactly the same. One who will give a position and playing time based on what was earned in practice and not based on some recruiting pitch and promise. This game is and always will be about team over the individual. I see no logic behind beginning a relationship with a recruit by focusing on the individual over team. Makes no sense and it make unrecruiting him after he arrives on campus so much more difficult.
We need a guy who will be secure enough to surround himself with an exceptional staff not his buddies or guys he simply feels comfortable with. A guy who will attract like minded, high character players and coaches. I'm a firm believer that a team will be a reflection of the head coach. It starts and ends at the top.
So for me, next year is about laying a foundation. I have no expectations of a winning season much less anything "special" in terms of a rapid turn around. Might as well get settled in. Got a long, rough road ahead. Flame away.