I never lost faith in Stoops. We started out great but it was no secret that depth was still an issue. That back stretch, really took a toll on us. I don't think we should've went 0-6 to end it but we started out with some tough SEC games and had ZERO bye weeks during SEC play. I think that really got into our head. We could've beaten MSU, and despite the score, we were just as good as UT. The UT game is one that really showed that we were due for a much needed re charge. We were literally sleepwalking in Knoxville. That following week, we got a bye and were tit for tat with Louisville.
I think that we are capable of winning every game. On paper, Auburn and Georgia are the two that most would say "No Chance" but those games are not 90's Florida and Tennessee where you say NO CHANCE. Georgia has always been a Jekyl and Hyde team. I don't expect us to win but as with every year, if the Bulldogs lose a game or two early and fall out of contention, they have been prone to pack it in.
Auburn lost some players but still will be one of the best in the nation. That being said, we have recently had "That Magic Night" each season. This year, Auburn, Florida, Louisville, or Tennessee could all have that big game feel. Auburn should beat us and I certainly wouldn't say we are a favorite but it just has that kind of feel. New Commonwealth Stadium, likely top 5-10 Auburn, first Thursday night home game, Prime Time ESPN. That has the making for a big time atmosphere.
Louisville will be down and I expect us to win that game in all honesty. You can't ever underestimate Petrino but I have a feeling, Stoops will really want this one.
Florida, is another game that I am starting to expect to win. It's early in the season, they are supposed to be horrible, will be breaking in a new staff, we have them at home, and were oh so close to ending the streak last year. Many times, we have been in this situation with Tennessee and failed during their streak, but at least there is hope. Also, Stoops has brought a new mindset.
Tennessee is no doubt much improved. They kicked our ass last year but I don't put much stock in that because of what I stated above. We were simply running on fumes. I will forever say that Tennessee should be our season ender. It's traditionally our biggest rival, and has been the last game for over 100 years until last season. That's another post in itself though. This game has potential to be a huge atmosphere just like Auburn. We desperately need to try everything to make this a night game. The Breeders cup will be in town, Halloween night, rival game, likely a blackout, and Stoops' chance to gain some momentum against an upstart UT program.
I can see us winning any of these four games individually but I know that's pretty unrealistic. There is a chance we go 3-1 but I really expect 2-2 out of these 4. Add in the 3 non conference so called cupcakes, and Vandy, that will get us to 6 wins. Mizzou, South Carolina, and a very beatable Miss State could be road wins that could propel us to a 7-8-or dare I say 9 win season. My guess is 7-5.
Wins
Louisiana
ekEwww
Charlotte
Vandy
Louisville
Auburn (May as well pick an upset game...could very well be UT instead)
Miss State
South Carolina or Mizzou could be #8.
Florida we SHOULD beat but I'll still pick them even though I have a good feeling. They could be #8 if we lose at Mizzou or SC.
