I've watched almost every bowl game this year, and one thing became abundantly clear: Syracuse doesn't have almost anyone that could play on these teams, let alone start. OK, maybe Provo and Jones, but really, to me, we are hurting in every position compared to these teams. It was so enjoyable watching "real football": the QB dropping back into a real pocket, then throwing an accurate pass with a little "touch"; the RB running thru gigantic holes, breaking tackles, out-running DB's to the end-zone; WR's catching tightly-contested deep passes, taking it the house; DE's running down QBs from behind; well-executed screen plays with actual down-field blocks; DBs running stride-for-stride with fast WRs; coaches making adjustments, taking chances with trick plays; you know... all the stuff that makes the game exciting to watch... then I compare THAT to what we GOT, and then the depression starts to creep in!!

I'm not saying we should have the same talent level as these "elite" programs, but it would be nice to think we could someday be somewhat competitive with these teams. I just don't see it happening, now or ever. We've fallen way behind in the arms race and, unless the University decides to make a substantial investment in improving our image to future recruits (read: facilities) we will never be able to get the kind of talent that will take us to the next level. I feel we are doomed to being just a mid-level team in BCS football, regardless of how hard Marrone works or how dedicated he is. I don't care who else we got in here to coach, in wouldn't make any difference. We need better talent to play at a higher level, and we need a way to induce those players to come here. Is there any reason to be more optimistic??