Season Prediction Thread

I think we are getting toward the time of year where we can make some predictions. I haven't seen a thread dedicated to this yet, but if there has been, mods go ahead and delete.

I'll say 10-2 regular season, with 9-3 more likely than 11-1. Here's my rationale, and I hope you provide some rather than just putting down a number. 

• Last year we were 121/125 in TO margin. With Ruddock presumably at QB, this should buy us, what, 2-3 wins? And if he's not QB, barring injury, the only reason can be positive.
• Pretty easy schedule outside of Utah, MSU and OSU. @Minnesota and @PSU will not be easy, but if we are what I think we should be, they really shouldn't compare at a talent level and for once we can say coaching should be an advantage.
• The defense looks to be no worse than good. Will it be elite? Will James Ross step up? Will Taco or Lawerence Marshall or I suppose Mario give us any pass rush? If we get a pass rush, I think the defense will be elite, but I'm not basing 10-2 on that.
• OL: We take a unit that performed reasonably well last year, give them more experience and arguably one of the best OL coaches in the country. Worst case scenario: solid pass pro and mediocre rushing. High hopes: very good but not elite.
• RBs: I'd really be surprised if we can't find someone or somebodys to perform admirably out of the 5 candidates: Isaac (IMO will be primary ball carrier), Green, Smith, Johnson, Higdon.
• WRs: Single biggest weakness I see. Darboh, from what we've seen, should be a #2, and he will be #1. I don't see Chesson taking it to the next level. Can Canteen, Harris, or maybe Peppers or Cole provide a dynamic option?
• X-Factor: Harbaugh performance in key games. This has been well-documented.
• We get our two toughest games at home. Win one and drop another annnnnddd

10-2