I expect we'll do much better than that. We have the talent at the Skill positions (including QB) to have a break out season. We are loaded at the LB, DE and Safety positions, on defense, as well.
It's worth noting that both teams in the SEC CG, last year, came out of the doldrums to have their own break out seasons, as well. There is no reason UT cannot do the same. I personally think Mizzou did so because they had 3 BIG WR's that elevated their offense...even with Mauck in as the QB.
Auburn broke out, largely because of Malzahn's offense. Our offense isn't as run-heavy as theirs, but Bajakian's will finally open up (the full playbook) and take off (with more experience at QB and the WR positions).
I think the mere addition of Hurd and Malone will have a colossal impact. I never saw a more impressive highlight reel for a RB than Jalen Hurd's. Kid practically looked like he was wearing a cape. I see Heisman in his future, cause if he can stay relatively healthy, that kid is going to go off on the SEC!
Yeah...this is going to be a totally different team, this year, cause defenses...even Bamer's...are going to be stressed really hard to matchup across the board, with all the WR talent (not to mention TE's Helm and Wolf). Then, you have to account for Hurd in the passing game as well.
Bajakian will quickly find the miss-matches and pick on them until defenses prove they can stop it. They can't double team North anymore...cause Malone and Pearson will eat them alive if they do.