[OutlawJoseyWales]

I think any time you lose the leadership qualities that Belfry possessed last year....you have to allow for a large learning curve from a leadership and maturation standpoint. Quite honestly......leadership will be paramount on this team.....especially coming off a 3A Championship. Alot of growth will need to take place over the next couple of months for this team to not just "gel"...but to "excel".

The talent is there......and from what I hear.....so is the desire. For fans it will be an exercise in patience......while Haywood and staff figures things out and manages the twists and turns of dauntingly difficult schedule.

Probably be some ups and downs throughout.....but I'm thoroughly convinced that Haywood and staff are at the very top of their game. I think last year is evidence enough that they're only getting better at managing personalities and personnel.

As an opponent.....I would want to be on the schedule in the first 4-5 weeks. By week 6........IMO......the real Pirates will begin to exert their will.....