I'm curious about this as well... not sure who is behind Ferg but I'd expect the productivity to go down quite a bit without a NFL-level gunslinger there to run the offense... you gotta admit the guy inherited a really good situation on offense.[/QUOTE]
Norvell recruited Ferguson to Memphis, not Fuente. Fuente cashed in on success under Lynch and left for VT.
7 starters on offense and 8 on defense are either Freshmen, Sophomores, or transfers into the program the last 2 years. The 2 deep chart on both sides of the ball is really young (mostly Frosh/soph).
Norvell has produced the 2 highest rated recruiting classes in Memphis history his first 2 years, and this years class will be either 1 or 2 in the AAC. Memphis is Top 20 good because of HIS RECRUITS not Fuentes. His offense has eclipsed Fuente's and his recruiting rankings are miles beyond what Fuente ever did at Memphis.
QB in the wings is a dual threat red shirt freshman. He's looked impressive when on the field. All skill positions except for Miller are returning, including the 2 beast backs (8.8 yards/carry and 6.8 yards/carry).
I don't expect another 10 win season next year because it's difficult to replace a Ferguson/MIller combo. Somewhere in the 7-9 win range would be expected given the youth at QB position. Look for another double digit/conference championship caliber team in 2 years when these Frosh/sophs are Juniors/Seniors.