Searching for the next 2019

[Schnauzer]

2019 was a fun ride. But given all the early season drama, it very easily could have been a 7-5 or 8-4 type year. CrAB doesn't make that 4th down catch against Fresno State? Douglas doesn't show up HUGE deep in Gopher territory as the game clock was expiring against Southern Georgia? Even a couple more bad bounces against South Dakota State and that game could have been an embarrassment. But it wasn't, and we now spend more time fretting over the team not showing up against Wisconsin, or being late out of the blocks against Iowa. But in reality 2019 could easily have been 7-5.

Ever since 2019 I am awaiting the next 10-2 type season, or better. 2024 could easily have been 10-2 had the team showed up against NC, Rutgers, or had the ref properly kept his whistle in his mouth as the Gophers were kicking off to Michigan. Penn State could easily have been a historic win.

We've seen both sides - the Gophers get some good bounces and go 10-2, and the Gophers get some bad bounces and go 8-5.

Does the preseason 2025 Gopher team feel different to you or when do you think the team will load up its next 2019 run at success?

 

[mngg11]

I think our next 2019 run is next year. The schedule lines up well for us this year and the defense is stacked in a lot of spots, but there are too many unknowns at qb, oline, and wideout for me to feel super confident that 2025 will have us back towards the top. That being said, Drake could wow us right off the bat, two guys could take huge jumps at wide receiver, and the line could be better than anticipated with their limited time to gel. In that case, watch out!

I'm excited and anxious to see how this year's squad pans out.