There are way too many new players with unknown capabilities to make a defensible, unarguable prediction of success. There are plenty of clues about the potential of next year's team, but few certainties. Small inflections one way or another can make large changes in the outcome.Actually, yes. I expect a top 3 finish in the BIG, and a S16 NCAA run. If the Gods of chance are with us we might get further in the NCAA's, but that is really not predictable now.
Carsen is going to feast on many teams, and those he struggles with will have to deal with Boudreaux and Wheeler. Yep, I'm bullish on next year's squad.
Given all that, I find it more fun to predict a positive outcome. At this point there is no concrete proof that supports it, but being positive about your team is an important part of being a fan and supporter of your team.