What are some realistic expectations for next football season?

While enthusiasm surrounding the football program is at an all-time high, it's important to keep in mind that it's still going to take time for that enthusiasm to carry over to on-field results. Each major recruit that Stoops and company brings in creates more positive momentum, but we are still at least a year from seeing most of these guys in action. Stoops did his best with the 2013 class, pulling off major last minute coups like Jason Hatcher and Ryan Timmons, but it will take time for the team as a whole to resemble an SEC caliber squad. Playmakers at the skill positions will be key, especially considering the lack of depth at wide receiver. The past few months have been thrilling for Kentucky football fans, who have been thirsty for a competitive squad for years, but immediate success in the SEC might as well be a mirage in the desert. A simple look at next year's schedule will tell you why: 08/31/13        vs. Western Kentucky TV (Nashville, Tenn) 09/07/13        vs. Miami (Oh) 09/14/13        vs. Louisville 09/28/13        vs. Florida 10/05/13        at South Carolina 10/12/13        vs. Alabama 10/26/13        at Mississippi State 11/02/13        vs. Alabama State 11/09/13        vs. Missouri 11/16/13        at Vanderbilt 11/23/13        at Georgia 11/30/13        vs. Tennessee Based on this schedule, what are your realistic expectations for next season's record (excluding a bowl game)? Vote in the poll below and leave your reasons in the comments section.

surveys

For what it's worth, I see Kentucky beating Western, Miami, Alabama State, and Tennessee to finish at 4-8, with a possible upset at Mississippi State or Vandy.