People. It is real simple. Here's how sportwriters prognosticate: Photocopy last year's results. Subtract a tiny bit for massive losses to graduation. Add a tiny bit for a good recruiting class. Add a medium amount for size of fan base. Never predict something that has not happened in recent memory, which is typically about seven seconds for the average sportswriter, who typically has an SEC or lower education. Again, never predict something that has not happened in recent memory. (Doing so is considered fishing for clicks via "hot take.")
If they are caught obviously misjudging an up and coming program, they simply say, "Well, they have not proven it to me yet!" Cuz it is very important to only include proven facts in future predictions.
VPI is a dumpster fire, but they remember VPI being good. FSU is a dumpster fire, but they remember FSU being good. NCSU is a dumpster fire, but they are a core school and have a base.
They don't remember us being good.