I’m not sure I agree with your point above, but that’s not why I’m disappointed in the schedule.I think a combo of 5 Q1/Q2 games would be enough, as long as we get some good wins in there. I realize the argument might be play 7 of them and that gives you more chances for Q1/2 wins, but I just wouldn't want to risk almost playing yourself out of an at large before IC play starts. In 2020, we only went 1-2 against Q1/2 OOC, and I think we were in good shape for an at large at 24-7. So, 5 should be plenty, especially if we win 2 or 3 of them. Do that, go 9-4 or 10-3 OOC, then get some more Q1 and Q2 wins while going 13-5 (if 10-3) or 14-4 (If 9-4) IC, and we would be in great shape at 23-8 with more than enough Q1/2 wins. I just think we need to be very smart with our OOC schedule because we all know how hard it would be to get an at large with 10+ losses. Just look at the all the love for the Big Ten out there. The A-10 got 1 at large last year, the Big Ten got 8.
As a fan, coming out of an NCAA appearance, I was hoping to see a few more quality P5 opponents. These are the games I want to watch and gets me excited about the team. It’s also these games that the more casual fans will watch.
Besides the tournament at the Barclays, there’s not much quality / interesting storylines in this schedule so far. Hope Mooney has a couple of cards to play.