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I really don't think this season is off the mark yet. In looking at all of the national forecasts and the schedule, Toledo is technically where it should be in the win/loss category. Could they have beat Ball State, yes. As far as main issues for improvement, here's what I see:

1. QB Play: If you simplify things, Toledo has a lot of weapons, but it somewhat limited at the QB position. Owens will win most games, does not have the ability to make the plays that separate great players from good players. That's not a slam against Owens, it's just the way it is. With that on mind, Toledo cannot afford to make my second point.

2. Penalties and turnovers. In order to make up for shortfalls at the QB spot during big games, you cannot make penalties or turn the ball over, yesterday Toledo did both. 10 penalties and fumbling near the endzone will not win you big games.

3. Winning requires recruiting and coaching. Toledo does well at recruiting, but that alone does not guarantee you wins. There are always transfers and guys who will never see the field, and guys who will peak and not meet projections. Toledo has has had one decent corner in last 15 years (des marrow).

4. Coaching. In the end, winners win and others end up as coordinators. Guys like Urban Meyer, Nick Saban, Bill Snyder, and Gary Pinkell win wherever they coach for a reason, because they are gifted coaches. The MAC is the place where guys learn to coach and move or get fired. No one is going to beat NIU this year. I do like the improvements Ive see on the defense. Campbell should show his full potential[/code][/php] bythe end of next season.

As far as dreams of being the next Boise St, I think Toledo should work at winning the division first, which won't happen until Lynch is gone.