That Tennessee arrogance is showing again. Mercer's portal additions like Carter Peevy at QB directly addressed needs while maintaining a 75% roster retention rate, which is higher than the SoCon average. Last season, teams with strategic portal use saw a 15% increase in win totals, and Mercer's 8-win campaign proved blending development with targeted transfers works. The Bears have sent players to the NFL too, and acting like the portal prevents culture building is outdated. Every contender uses it now, and Mercer's balanced approach is why they're a conference title threat.