some of my thoughts on the UCF game

[Turbine]

You mentioned that this program is on the rise. Can you give any specifics or indicators?

Although it did not turn into more wins (2004)

Cajuns 1st in total offense yds/game in the Belt
Cajuns 2nd in total defense
Cajuns 1st in 3rd down conversions, a much overlooked stat, keeps drives going.

Info below originally posted by gorcajun and represented by Turbine link

2002: 71 more points = 8 wins
2003: 32 more points = 8 wins
2004: 17 more points = 8 wins

Seems to me this team is improving.

[shof]

I am actually pulling for Sunbelt schools as a whole whenever they aren't playing C-USA schools (the conference UCF is in).

I'm surprised at the downyears FAU and Troy are having but I believe that you guys have much more upside than the MAC and should steal their spot in the GMAC bowl sooner than later.

You mentioned that this program is on the rise. Can you give any specifics or indicators?

Some quantitative, some qualitative. Things you can measure. Attendance rising over past 3 years since the Coach Bustle hire. By the time Coach Baldwin had left (1999-2001), attendance was getting below 10,000. It seemed nobody really wanted him (support in Lafayette) and his record proved them right. It also led to a decline in scholarship players on the roster (too many props, etc). Bottom line: he lost games, lost support, lost attendance, etc.
In comes Bustle (2002 season). Vibrant guy from winning program (VaTech). Started recruiting better "student athletes". It all starts with attitude as well. He sold people that this program COULD win. We've had a couple of solid recruiting classes now, we have been competitive within our conference (which is where we have to start), and this enthusiasm has transended into fundraising and support for athletics. As soon as this season ends, we break ground on our indoor practice facility, which if I'm not mistaken is the only one in the state other than LSU (not counting the Saints practice facility). Our attendance has improved each year so far; and could have been even better if not for some really horrible weather on game days. What encourages me the most is that even though we haven't crossed the threshold to a winning season yet, he still has the support of the people and apparently the administration also. The real litmus test to how serious our administration is just might be in the next Athletic Director hire which hopefully will be completed this fall.
Lastly, and I'm not trying to write a thesis here, is that you have to look at the entire athletic program; not just football. Yes, we all know that football drives the bus, but when you look at our other sports (spring in particular) our basketball, baseball & women's softball compete very well with the "big boys". And I think that does say a lot and will be a factor if we are able to "move up" to a more respectable conference. In the meantime, its all about trying to help the SBC become more respected, and in football that is an uphill battle.
Cheers, and enjoy the game.

[CajunGuru]

Turbine,this will be a tough game, but it is winnable. Can the team rise to the occassion? We shall see! These guys are a bit over confident after beating the worst team Marshall has put on the field in years. These guys are not years away from us in talent, although they may think so.

[shof]

Info below originally posted by gorcajun and represented by Turbine link

Thanks. I knew some of you guys had the stats. Numbers make it a little easier to show improvement; and we have. I look at this game much like the EMU game. Its one we should compete in, and definitely have a chance to win. Would be great to start conference play with a 2-game winning streak!