We are not far off and the odds were stacked against us last night: Elliot being out was huge. The grind of going twice as long(season) as OH Definitely showed up mentally and physically last night. There is an absolute advantage from a freshness stand point and that is what we saw last night.
This team will be better next year. A lot of Freshmen and Redshirt Freshmen in this line up and having gained a year's experience will be huge. Both lines will add bulk and strength and some blue chip Freshmen coming in will give added depth. The WR core will be at full strength with much depth as well as the LB position. The secondary, I don't know about depth there. Next year will be fun to watch.