Winning a state title is not really a litmus test. it's more of I've heard of Langford and how great he is for the past three years. if he's so great, he should have been able to carry his team on his back in a cakewalk to another state championship last year. The fact he was unable to do so means he's either not as great as his hype, or that a lot of other players are almost as good as he is. I believe the latter is the case.
My other point, is if Langford is projected to start and be a star, then the Purdue recruits should at least be expected to be contributors rather than needing to be redshirted. Sasha and Wheeler redshirted last year, not because they were not ready to contribute, but rather, because there would be little time for them to play. This year is different. We will have some time for all of our players to play. And I believe a guy like Dow will play and contribute rather than needing to redshirt this year.
And yes, I admit there is a difference between the top 25 high school players and the other 50-200 players. I would expect a top 25 high school player to start as a freshman and have a significant impact as a player. And I expect a top 50-200 player to be able to at least contribute and be part of a 10 man rotation rather than red shirting.
yes, our team is young. But we have enough experience and talent to overcome that lack of experience - especially in the backcourt.. An experienced backcourt is your coach on the floor, and can set the tempo and also cover for youthful mistakes. I also see Evan adding to that experience. I don't believe the sky is falling. I believe this team will be almost as good as last year's team. I see this team, even with its inexperience as a 20-25 win team.