According to our preseason poll, expectations as far as expected win total were as follows:
So a 7-6 finish after the Gophers’ 34-10 victory over Georgia Tech in the Quick Lane Bowl is right in line with preseason expectations. I think where most would take issue is in losses to perceived inferior opponents and, specifically, the nature of those losses.
Looking at our staff predictions from that preseason post, there were five games that did not go according to plan, so to speak:
- 7 out of 7 expected a win over Maryland
- 5 out of 7 expected a win over Nebraska
- 7 out of 7 expected a win over Illinois
- 6 out of 7 expected a loss to Wisconsin
Expected wins over New Mexico State, Miami (Ohio), and Indiana were unanimous.