re: Is optimism for 2013 football = delusional homerism?

I haven't read through the comments, but here is my take.

Every year the team loses players that everyone can't fathom how the team will be competitive without them.

Each year someone steps up and the team does fine. Sure there may be a drop off at that position, say corner back. Yet a line backer becomes the best player, and the team does fine.

Also, keep in mind that every team in the country lost key players as well.

Sure the Tigers are rebuilding their defensive line, but most of the new players have seen significant action thus far.

The sky is not falling.