IMO if our team is at least equal to last years team we will have a better record based on the fact that our schedule will be weaker. And yes that includes our crappy D.
Non-Conference - two worse opponents and two equal opponents
2012 Ohio > 2013 Ohio - no more Tettleton, thank God
WCU = Gardner Webb
Purdue > Miami (OH) - Obviously Purdue is better
WVU = Virginia Tech - both teams slightly above average
East - Maybe a little tougher this year but nothing overwhelming
UCF > FIU - our hated rival is gone but so is a team we seem to never beat
Memphis < La Tech - I will miss Memphis, they were a sure win
2012 UAB = 2013 UAB - never been to a bowl game and won't go next year either
2012 ECU = 2013 ECU - under McNeill they will hang around 6-6
2012 So. Miss < 2013 So. Miss - they can't be worse next year
West - All worse opponents
Houston > No. Texas - North Texas was an awful addition to C-USA
Tulsa > UTEP - duh
Rice > Tulane - I love me some Tulane, they never beat us, EVER.
Anything less than 8-4 and second in the east should result in a new head coach. If our defense "only" gives up 30 points a game we should win 10 or more. I know that sounds crazy but this is the weakest schedule we have faced since Bob Pruett was here.