Getting into this season, we have two players who we can't afford to lose: Mettenberger and Copeland. Losing 44 today, at least on paper, has written us off from the list of National Championship contenders as we rely on his block and pass protection sooooo much in either run or pass situations, and there is no experienced backup for him on the roster (only a true freshman left if I remember correctly). Say whatever you want but sorry, this so-called "championship" season is done with his seemingly major injury. I wish Copeland nothing but good luck and pray for his return before the BAMA game. That's all I can hope for.
I don't know if you were watching this season before Copeland got hurt, but I think alot of us have realized that if this offense doesn't seriously change, doesn't matter who we play on offense.
We were never a championship contender this year. Just over-hyped by the polls, which have no business being put out until at least six weeks into the season. I doubt we will be a ranked in the top 25 at the end of the year.
You may be right, but we still can rely on some great personnel under the current offensive scheme to fight for victory in some games, for example the Florida and SC game. With Copeland out, the changes we can make proactively before and during a game are even more limited.
I think we will be in the top 25 by year's end but barely. It's like a freight train is coming and we can all see it but can't stop it.
We haven't looked like a championship caliber team since Washington. Our D will keep us in games, but QB and passing game needs to step up. Our offense looks bad against a wet paperbag this weekend.