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As a longtime observer of collegiate athletics and someone who's analyzed countless team dynamics across different sports, I've always been fascinated by how certain programs manage to turn their fortunes around. When I look at the Creighton Bluejays football program heading into this new season, I can't help but draw parallels to what I recently witnessed in professional volleyball. Just eight months after her last Philippine stint with Petro Gazz, that returning Cuban reinforcement Salas posted a double-double of 10 points and 15 digs in her first match donning a different shade of red. That immediate impact from a key addition is exactly what Creighton needs to replicate if they want to secure a winning season.

The first strategy that comes to mind, and honestly the one I believe could make or break their season, revolves around quarterback development. Having watched their spring practices, I'm convinced they need to commit to either sophomore transfer Mike Johnson or redshirt freshman David Chen as their starter by week two at the latest. Last season's quarterback carousel cost them at least three wins in my estimation, with the offense never finding its rhythm. The numbers don't lie - they averaged just 18.7 points in games where they switched quarterbacks mid-game compared to 28.3 when sticking with one signal-caller. That consistency at the most important position on the field is non-negotiable if they want to compete in the Big East.

What really gets me excited though is their defensive front seven. I've been studying their roster moves, and the addition of defensive coordinator Marcus Williams from Cincinnati could be their secret weapon. Williams brings that aggressive 4-3 scheme that I've always preferred over passive defensive approaches. During his tenure at Cincinnati, his defenses generated an average of 2.8 sacks per game and forced 18 turnovers last season alone. If Creighton's linebackers can improve their coverage skills - which was a glaring weakness last year, allowing opponents to complete 74% of passes thrown to running backs and tight ends - this defense could surprise people.

Special teams is where I think many programs, including Creighton, often miss opportunities. They've brought in freshman kicker Alex Rodriguez from Texas, and from what I've seen in practice footage, this kid has NFL-caliber leg strength. In high school, he made 85% of his field goals, including 7 from beyond 50 yards. But here's the thing - they need to trust him in clutch situations rather than playing conservative. Too many coaches panic in critical moments and make decisions that cost their teams games. I'd rather see them take calculated risks with Rodriguez's leg than punt from opponent territory like they did three times in crucial situations last season.

The offensive line depth chart concerns me more than I'd like to admit. They're returning only two starters from a unit that allowed 38 sacks last season, which ranked them near the bottom of FBS programs. However, I'm cautiously optimistic about graduate transfer Robert Miller from Oregon State. At 6'5" and 315 pounds, he brings that Pac-12 experience that could stabilize their left tackle position. What I'd really like to see is them developing more creative running schemes to take pressure off their young linemen. Maybe incorporate more misdirection and screen passes - something they've been reluctant to do in recent years but could pay huge dividends.

Culture building might sound like coaching cliché, but having spoken with several players during spring practices, I genuinely believe head coach Mark Thompson has started to change the locker room dynamic. The leadership council they implemented this offseason, comprised of eight players across different classes, has created more accountability than I've seen in previous years. They're organizing player-led practices and film sessions without coaching staff present, which tells me the buy-in is real this time. That intangible factor could be worth an extra win or two in close games.

Looking at their schedule, I count at least six winnable games if they execute these strategies properly. The opener against rival Nebraska will set the tone - a game I personally think they should approach with nothing to lose mentality. Throw some trick plays early, take shots downfield, and establish that aggressive identity from day one. Too often mid-major programs play scared against Power Five opponents, and I'd love to see Creighton break that mold. If they can steal one of those early non-conference games and build momentum, this could be the season that turns the program around and gets them to that elusive bowl game we've all been waiting for.