Acknowledged that games are won in the trenches... acknowledged that Jones appears to be a better game coach than Dooley... yet many here think UT will be "lucky" to match Dooley's first year results.
I hope the OL is this good and produces 2 1000 yd rushers.
Yes, coaching will undoubtedly be improved--there's almost no where to go but up.
Yes, the guys have bought in. Plus they are one year stronger, faster, etc.
Yes, both starting lines are talented.
But... I think a Dooley-Esque W-L record (not Dooley-esque football) is reasonably expected because:
-- Almost zero experience at the most important position on the field... QB.
-- The same defensive personnel that produced the worst defense in UT history. DL starters look good, but depth should be a concern everywhere on defense.
-- No proven playmakers. Anywhere.
-- Installing new systems on both sides of the ball.
-- Typical rigorous SEC schedule along with a game in Autzen, albeit against an Oregon program influx.
Jones has made all the right moves thus far, but several years of mediocre recruiting and flat out misses on the trail are bound to rear their ugly heads at some point over the next couple seasons.
I really don't mean to rain on parades or urinate in morning bowls of Cherios; nor do I mean to single your post out because I honestly have no idea what your beliefs are. I simply encourage tempered expectations.
Personally I hope Jones overachieves, like his coaching history suggests he can, and grinds the competition into a beautiful oblivion. I just think it may take some time.
