Look, I know recruiting titles mean a lot to you but despite what you think of Carolina's class, I have a feeling they're still going to play next year and for some reason, I think they'll be ok.
Oh, and Cam will play next year.
Thank you for your permission.
Falling off a cliff would be not only missing the tourney next year, but multiple tournaments. The Heels will be a title threat in 2020. That's Roy's MO. Every 3-4 years, he has a team that can compete for a championship.
Carolina can't win it every year. Of course they're not going to be a serious title threat. Few teams are after winning a title the year prior. But the Heels will make the tournament in 2018. I don't think many would agree with your definition of "falling off a cliff".