In response to my own questions.
How much better will our defense be?
Contrary to popular belief, I don't think that our defense was that bad last year. We were near at or near the top of the conference in just about every statistical category. The defense just disappeared at key times like 3rd down and at the end of several games.
The difference this year is that we won't give up so many big plays on 3rd down. The style of defense that Tenuta brings will help us out on 3rd down tremendously. With Tenuta coaching the DBs I see huge improvement. We won't even recognize them out on the field.
As ahso mentioned, the DEs will be able to contain the other teams QBs better because the interior linemen will step up.
Who will win the QB position?
Too tough to tell right now. We'll know more after spring practice, but it will probably just be narrowed down to 2 or so. Right now I think it comes down to Suggs and Bilbo, but Hall and Landry will be in the mix. What a wonderful problem it is to have so many good QBs to choose from.
What surprises lay in store for us?
Well, it may not be a huge surpise for many of us, but I think many people that don't follow Tech that closely are going to be surprised. It doesn't seem like very many people are giving us any respect. That's ok with me. We will be able to sneak up on a lot of people. I see us being one of the top 2 or 3 teams in the conference.
Are you optimistic or pessimistic?
Optimistic, obviously.
What will our record end up at?
To me, 9-3 is a reasonable record to shoot for. I'd be very happy with anything better than that. Of course, that assumes that we beat UGAg. If we lose to them it won't matter what our record is...I'll be disappointed.
Will we finally get over the FSU hurdle?
This will be out best chance in years to beat FSU. We have the defensive speed to keep up with their receivers. With better defensive play up the middle, the DEs will be able to contain Rix. We have a good shot at them this year, and Bobby Bowden knows it.
<font size="2" face="Arial, Verdana, Sans-Serif">What he said.