In Reply to: This is a bit discouraging posted by traprh on April 17, 2026 at 09:51:09
I have found that polls can be superficial in their methods. Last year's records and big names can fuel rankings while team building is often ignored. Polls can make fans feel better but are almost meaningless.
We'll see how UCLA's roster looks after they've filled all their open slots, but right now, IMO, Cronin is doing a good job addressing his team's needs and last year's weaknesses. He's now going to have to bring in 2 or 3 other highly impactful players to round out his roster. Even if he can do that he may not bring in the splashy names. Petty, IMO, is in that category.
USC has brought in a few big splashy names thus their early ranking. But what we've often seen there before is the collection of highly rated players they bring in often doesn't make for an effective team.
The opposite is often the case with Cronin. A lot depends on who Cronin brings in now, but IMO I believe he has done a solid and commendable job thus far.