The sentiment after Leach was hired a year ago was tantamount to "pinch me, I'm dreaming". While some have had that sentiment tamped down by a rough season, I for one continue to shake my head in disbelief that we got this guy.

We as a fanbase should still be thrilled with the hire. Some signs that point to good times ahead:

1. The cancers have been cut out. Regardless of your thoughts on the three rules that get you kicked off the team (stealing, drugs, striking a woman), there should be no doubt that players have either bought in or left.

2. The offense did not get going consistently last year. How many times in Leach's career have his teams not had a dynamic offense? Expect that to change this year with everyone in the system for a year. Line play and QB decision making should improve, and the offense should be more instinctual for players this season.

3. Defense. I don't know about you, but to see WSU's defense perform admirably for most of the season while being out-manned, I was pumped about Breske's impact on the Cougs. The influx of bodies on the d-line and the experience coming back in the LB and secondary, I'd expect a move forward to a middle of the road defense that can cause more turnovers next year.

4. Linemen. This is the key to it all. Leach's recruiting is stocking us with big bodies and athleticism on both lines. This should be what gets WSU from just hoping for bowl eligibility to competing for the North title over the next 4 to 5 years.

I still love the hire, and you should too. Go to bed thanking whomever your deity is that Mike Leach is the WSU football coach.