I'm sure I'm not the only AU fan disappointed with the way this season played out. 7-4 is simply not good enough, especially when one of the wins was the Miracle at Lubbers. We easily could have been 6-5. This may have been one of the worst offenses AU fans have witnessed in recent memory under Lee Owens. The lack of big plays, issues with the OLine, averaging 25 points a game...that's just not good enough. Giving up 25 points a game? That's not the defense anyone expected before the year started. Unless there's an upgrade in talent, it's hard to see AU competing with FSU and GVSU in the near future.
That's why I think the talked about move a year ago to the GMAC should not only be reconsidered next year but it flat out needs to happen. When you see Tiffin go 9-1 and get into playoffs with the following resume, how can you not see the advantages of playing a weaker schedule that can get you into the postseason:
Beat Northwood by 3
Lose to Saggy by 15
Best conference wins: ODU and Findlay
That's what it takes to get a playoff berth in the GMAC. Not beating your head against a wall against FSU and GVSU every year! Even in a year where AU splits with the two best teams in the league they get tripped up by Wayne St. Saggy seems to be improving. Davenport is getting better. Not to mention how tough Region 3 is overall. Here's the simple question: What's more important, the prestige of playing in the GLIAC, or going to the GMAC knowing you've greatly improved your chances of being in the mix for a playoff berth? As much as I like us playing the best, I want my school to have a shot at the postseason and it looks like those opportunities are getting slimmer and slimmer in the GLIAC.
That's why I think the talked about move a year ago to the GMAC should not only be reconsidered next year but it flat out needs to happen. When you see Tiffin go 9-1 and get into playoffs with the following resume, how can you not see the advantages of playing a weaker schedule that can get you into the postseason:
Beat Northwood by 3
Lose to Saggy by 15
Best conference wins: ODU and Findlay
That's what it takes to get a playoff berth in the GMAC. Not beating your head against a wall against FSU and GVSU every year! Even in a year where AU splits with the two best teams in the league they get tripped up by Wayne St. Saggy seems to be improving. Davenport is getting better. Not to mention how tough Region 3 is overall. Here's the simple question: What's more important, the prestige of playing in the GLIAC, or going to the GMAC knowing you've greatly improved your chances of being in the mix for a playoff berth? As much as I like us playing the best, I want my school to have a shot at the postseason and it looks like those opportunities are getting slimmer and slimmer in the GLIAC.
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