re: Let's assume that both Martin and Mickey had stayed

Objectively, this season is much better. We go undefeated in the preseason, so there is no desperation by the time the SEC schedule comes around.

We are not a bubble team coming off a bad loss, so our stupid-arse AD doesn't make public comments about how the team is likely not going to make the tournament, and our team doesn't give up immediately afterwards. Which means we are all still happy right now.

We probably lose in the second round, but there's still a good feeling about the program overall. Everyone looks forward to the draft.