[EKUAlum05]

I kind of agree with what you're saying, but to that I will say this year's Bourbon team is better than last year's Bourbon team, and IMO is right there with last year's Belfry team. So while I think they played at a high level last year, I think they are at an even higher level this year.

People can say Bourbon hasn't played a soul, but they have hung a running clock on every opponent they have played, and have only been at home 3 times this year. Had Bourbon gone out and scheduled a JC caliber team it would have better prepared them for a rematch, but I don't think it would have made them any better or worse than they are right now. If Pope gets back for Belfry I believe Bourbon will shock some people.

I Agree 100% with you on both accounts... the only reason the gap has closed on bourbon with Mason is simply the fact Mason had a lot more ground to catch up.

Preparation and game speed have nothing to do with team ability. That's where a tougher schedule would have benefited Bourbon, but in the grand scheme "You are what you are" when you basically return your entire team. In the case of Belfry, playing a tough schedule has made them better as they have had to force their young players to improve.

The funny thing is,,, the fact Mason looks to be legit is now a positive for Bourbon. Whereas before it appeared the weak schedule would last until Week 14 and then they would be thrown in the fire versuses Belfry.. now in Week 13 you will see a team that will give you a better taste of talent and speed.