Understandably, there’s a lot of doom and gloom after five straight losses, and like everyone, I’m disappointed. There's no denying the frustration, and the "fire everyone" crowd has their points. However, I think this season deserves a broader perspective.
Given the context—new offense, rookie QB, a decimated O-line, coaching overhaul, injuries to key players, and a tough schedule—I believe this season was a success in many ways. It may even be one of Narduzzi's best coaching efforts, considering:
My concern is that fans and the program might take the wrong lesson from this season. The 7-0 start showed what’s possible. I don’t want to wait another 42 years for another chance like this. In the new NIL and playoff era, the flow of the season and staying in the national spotlight as long as possible matters.
I want more seasons like this one—even if we fall apart at the end. If we’re going to have bad games or inexplicable losses, I’d rather they come at the end of the year. Who knows? One year we might not fall apart, and it could lead to something truly special. Please continue to win early, stay relevant, and give the fanbase a chance to dream for as long as possible.
"’Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
Given the context—new offense, rookie QB, a decimated O-line, coaching overhaul, injuries to key players, and a tough schedule—I believe this season was a success in many ways. It may even be one of Narduzzi's best coaching efforts, considering:
- 7-0 Start (first since 1982): We were in the national spotlight, briefly a playoff and championship contender, and it was thrilling to dream.
- Wins over key rivals (WVU, Cincinnati, Syracuse) and finally beating UNC on the road.
- Incredible comebacks, tightly contested games, and unforgettable moments.
- The collapse was disappointing but not inexplicable, considering the injuries, youth, and tough schedule. In contrast, inexplicable home losses occurred in seasons with better records, such as against Western Michigan in 2021 or Georgia Tech in 2023.
My concern is that fans and the program might take the wrong lesson from this season. The 7-0 start showed what’s possible. I don’t want to wait another 42 years for another chance like this. In the new NIL and playoff era, the flow of the season and staying in the national spotlight as long as possible matters.
I want more seasons like this one—even if we fall apart at the end. If we’re going to have bad games or inexplicable losses, I’d rather they come at the end of the year. Who knows? One year we might not fall apart, and it could lead to something truly special. Please continue to win early, stay relevant, and give the fanbase a chance to dream for as long as possible.
"’Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
