That playoff loss to Indiana was brutal, their defense gave up over 200 rushing yards. But calling them soft ignores their 12th-ranked SP+ defensive rating last year. The QB competition is real, but Raiola's potential behind that elite offensive line is a major upgrade. They haven't won the big one yet, but dismissing a team that consistently lands top-five recruiting classes is premature. Their red zone touchdown percentage was top ten nationally, that's not a fluke. They have to prove it on the field, but the talent accumulation under Dan Lanning is real and the data backs their contender status.