Fresno State is coming off its worst season in nearly three decades.
It is inexperienced all around with few established players, is missing its defensive coordinator, suffered season-ending injuries to two of their top players on the team in receiver Chastin West and linebacker Ahijah Lane and plays a demanding schedule again.
So why do the Bulldogs think they can be better than last year's 4-8 mark?
Well, for one, they have no choice. No team would say, "Yeah, we're going to stink this year" even if they did sense it.
The Bulldogs have to think positive, and there have been some signs that they're looking in the accurate direction.
Just look at the offense.
Based on practice and scrimmages, quarterback Tom Brandstater has looked sharp at practice with his short-route and deep-ball throws.
Running back Lonyae Miller looks stronger and isn't getting yelled at as much as last season (that can only mean improvement, right?). Clifton Smith provides a good change of pace with his shiftiness.
Tight end Bear Pascoe has been active in all facets of the game, from passing to run blocking to pass blocking. Expect a big season from the 6-foot-5 target.
One must assume the offensive line will only get better, considering they were decent last year and that was with two freshly converted defensive linemen.
And the receiving corps., even despite the loss of its most reliable and versatile option in West, is a solid group, though inconsistent.
In short, the offense should be much improved under new coordinator Jim McElwain.
But of course, its offensive success all hinges on one player. I'll let you guess who.
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