So no part of the defense that has ranked 128 and 109 in yards per game the last two years gives you concern? Or backup RB? Or a TE group that had 6 catches last year?
Should beat UNI, SJSU, and Kansas. KSU should be winnable, because those were winnable games the last two years with competent head coaching. This year isn't about wins; it's about installing a system, finding out what players can fit that system, building a foundation for the program, and changing the "happy with mediocre" mindset.
Let's get back to reality as you contradicted yourself in the last paragraph. Not "Happy with mediocre" yet accepting poor?
It doesnt take years to implement an offense or defense. Rhoads turned ISU around year one as have many other coaches made immediate progress especially when inheriting some experienced talent as Campbell is.
Backup running back? Backup? Thanks for pointing out one of the easiest positions to build depth with freshmen. This a minor concern at best.
Tight end? Really? This is one of the least important positions on the field. I don't care what offense you are referring to. Even Iowa gets by with below average tight ends at times. Pretty simple why. Tight ends get open usually through scheme and play action and not through ability to separate. After the catch, it's usually a few yards and tackled. Rotate a blocker in for other plays.
All big 12 running back, all big 12 receiver (other experienced receivers), experienced quarterback who showed promise with juco back ups. Couple young talented olinemen off redshirt with three players that played significant time. Juco coming in along with others. Certainly a concern but very similar to last year.
Defensive line : one of the best ISU has returned in a long time....experience with a playmaker inside. Young dend's backing up off redshirt that have talent.
Linebackers return and they rave about Harvey. (Loss of Harris is on this staff...no excuse there) They botched that.
Dbacks. Experience in 4 year guys and juco talent. Should be deep and talented. Transfers coming in too.
Kicker..should be good
punter. Did well enough
If this team wins less than 4 games it won't be because of a lack of talent to win more.
That's why we hired a new coach. To win more than 3 games. Especially with better talent than ISU has had in years returning.