Last night was certainly disappointing in the sense that we couldn't silence the doubters and extend a magical season. It was also disappointing that we just didn't handle a big road environment well at all.
From a talent perspective, we were out matched. I haven't gone and paid any attention to ND's last three recruiting classes but it's safe to say they are loaded with 4/5 star players. We are loaded with very good Sun Belt players that Cignetti has coached/developed. We may have 8 kids on our roster who were 4* coming out of high school. Cignetti will obviously need better recruits if we want to beat an Ohio State or ND, particularly on the road.
Moving forward, Cignetti and this team have set the bar high. Fans will rightfully expect a big season next fall. We need to finish the portal efforts strong. Find several big time linemen that can make an impact from day one. Find a QB who can not only throw but scramble effectively. Splash some bags of NIL around and keep the momentum going. An 8+ win season will be expected next year; that's what this season has created.
It's been a great ride! Thank you, Coach Cignetti!
From a talent perspective, we were out matched. I haven't gone and paid any attention to ND's last three recruiting classes but it's safe to say they are loaded with 4/5 star players. We are loaded with very good Sun Belt players that Cignetti has coached/developed. We may have 8 kids on our roster who were 4* coming out of high school. Cignetti will obviously need better recruits if we want to beat an Ohio State or ND, particularly on the road.
Moving forward, Cignetti and this team have set the bar high. Fans will rightfully expect a big season next fall. We need to finish the portal efforts strong. Find several big time linemen that can make an impact from day one. Find a QB who can not only throw but scramble effectively. Splash some bags of NIL around and keep the momentum going. An 8+ win season will be expected next year; that's what this season has created.
It's been a great ride! Thank you, Coach Cignetti!
