Much lower than it should be but not completely unexpected as the team only returns 10-11 starters, brand new HC and coaching team and a pretty strong schedule including rough OOC.
My scarlet-colored glasses has us with 3-4 wins but in all likelihood were looking at 2 win season. Hope Sanchez et al prove us all wrong.
I love the fact Will doesn't think the team can beat Idaho State. Yes, there are a couple FCS prognasticastors suggesting that this could be an upset game. But remember, it's still being considered an upset meaning UNLV is favored. Most of these hopefuls are FCS fans who look at Hauck's atrocious game and close win with Northern Colorado and expect the same.
Couple things to consider about Idaho State:
- Lost FCS Offensive Coordinator of the Year to join Hawaii and Norm Chow
- Defense ranked 10 out of 13 in Big Sky AND lose 5 defensive starters (these guys are going to really bad defensively)
- Offensive returns 9 starters and will be potent but lose their star quarterback to graduation
- Hired Rob Phenicie as Asst Coach / Wide Recievers (that should do them in right there)
- FCS schools limited to 63 scholarships
A couple things to consider about UNLV:
- Hauck is gone along with his horrendous coaching (he had a problem with every FCS game)
- Game played at home which still means something even in Las Vegas
- No tape on new Sanchez led UNLV (only first three games of season)
- After three very tough games, UNLV will be hungry for a win and more prepared after 3 games under its belt
- Hauck is GONE (I can't stress fact enough, no more trick plays, no more coaching head-scratchers, no more allowing the team to lay down)
I have UNLV favored by 7 in this game. It won't be your typical FCS easy win but UNLV is favored no matter what. As long as there are no major injuries prior to the game, UNLV should take it. They'll be hungry.
