LeanMeanOrangeGreen
Freshman
- Joined
- Oct 27, 2025
- Messages
- 350
My friends, I’ve never been one to say things like “this is our year” or something of the sort, especially between 2005-2024 because I always approach each season with what some might consider “below average” expectations. I respect the super optimistic part of the fanbase but that’s just never been me. There was a long period of time where there were 3-4 actual contenders and everyone else. Those days, for now, appear to be over and I’m absolutely here for it!
BUT when I think about last year and what we accomplished and the momentum we got going into 2026, there is reason to believe this could indeed “be our year” although I still say it with caution. Why do I believe this?
- Darian Mensah is a better collegiate QB than Beck. He’s got weapons. The offensive line will still be strong and we have a great RB room. If anything we should expect more offensive production with Mensah VS Beck. Mensah is somewhere between a Cam Ward and D’eriq King type QB who’s far more dangerous than Beck, who’s more of a traditional pocket passer who’s extremely accurate when given time and not a big run threat. He was good, but I think Mensah can really elevate this offense.
- Defensively, I know we’re losing 3 potential first rounders but there’s plenty of depth on the roster to help fill those voids. As good as Bain was he was always limited by getting held. It was the only way he could be contained. We’re returning Moten and the transfer from Missouri will certainly help. Secondary loses Scott but returns plenty of key contributors from last season. While there might be a drop off with this unit, I don’t expect to see the 2024 defense trot on the field, especially with Heatherman coming back.
I imagine we’ll be ranked in the Top 8 to start the season but could very well be higher if the AP decides not to overlook us for their SEC darling programs. I’d put us at #3 to start the year. I’m not saying we’re going to go undefeated but I think this is the year we finally win the ACC because we’re just too talented at this point not to get there and this is absolutely a Natty contender. So ******* get ready folks. We’re 6 months away and I’m still excited!
BUT when I think about last year and what we accomplished and the momentum we got going into 2026, there is reason to believe this could indeed “be our year” although I still say it with caution. Why do I believe this?
- Darian Mensah is a better collegiate QB than Beck. He’s got weapons. The offensive line will still be strong and we have a great RB room. If anything we should expect more offensive production with Mensah VS Beck. Mensah is somewhere between a Cam Ward and D’eriq King type QB who’s far more dangerous than Beck, who’s more of a traditional pocket passer who’s extremely accurate when given time and not a big run threat. He was good, but I think Mensah can really elevate this offense.
- Defensively, I know we’re losing 3 potential first rounders but there’s plenty of depth on the roster to help fill those voids. As good as Bain was he was always limited by getting held. It was the only way he could be contained. We’re returning Moten and the transfer from Missouri will certainly help. Secondary loses Scott but returns plenty of key contributors from last season. While there might be a drop off with this unit, I don’t expect to see the 2024 defense trot on the field, especially with Heatherman coming back.
I imagine we’ll be ranked in the Top 8 to start the season but could very well be higher if the AP decides not to overlook us for their SEC darling programs. I’d put us at #3 to start the year. I’m not saying we’re going to go undefeated but I think this is the year we finally win the ACC because we’re just too talented at this point not to get there and this is absolutely a Natty contender. So ******* get ready folks. We’re 6 months away and I’m still excited!
