at least from a statistical point of view
As before NSD% = 100*(points scored - points allowed)/(points scored + points allowed)
The more positive the number the more dominant the team, the more negative the more the team got dominated.
The graph above is ONLY for conference play (where the stat actually means something from year to year).
If you need a comparison this years team is very much like the 2005 team. Amazing what a change in expectations does for perception.
This years team was an improvement over last year, that much is clear. Unfortunately, it was also one of the worst teams coached by Bill Snyder (5th worst out of 18). It was also one of the worst offensive teams under Bill.
While people may say we are only a few players away from a DoD type team, these figures clearly show that our defense needs to improve by at least a touchdown a game, and that our offense needs to improve by about 2-3 touchdowns a game. The point is we are probably about 21-28 (at least) points worse than a DoD type team right now.
As an aside, it is interesting to look at the BEST teams under Snyder (ranked in reverse order):
5. 1995 - only losses to NU and CU, arguably the two best teams in the country
4. 1999 - An amazing recovery to losing a Heisman caliber QB. Only lost to 12-1 Nub.
3. 2003 - Only an injury to Ell prevented this team from a NC run. Completely dominated the end of the season.
2. 1998 - A surprise that it's #2. An tremendous team that showed depth problems as the year wore on. Should have won the NC.
1. 2002 - The best defense in KSU history and tied with the '98 team for the best offense. Should have won the NC. The loss to CU is probably the (2nd) most regrettable loss in KSU history.
