I’m encouraged by Waddles staff. There’s improvement from year 1-2 all you can ask. 4 wins year two (could get Stetson as well). Gets him to where Fox and Cecchini were in year two. Which both then endured a winning season.
After Butler got its last score late in the 4th, they didn't give up. Offense, defense, and special teams stepped up to give them a chance to win on the last play from the red zone. That does count for something.
What I am beginning to hear here, and what I am feeling as well, is that Coach Waddle and staff have learned a lot from season one. The team that has gone 1-3 so far is much better than the one that we saw in 2025. Our kids are competing face to face with not much of a gigantic personnel shift, and our coaching has changed positively to reflect that.
Have to credit Coach Waddle and staff for adjusting to the D1 world after being DIII- focused for so long.
We’re just better. It’s evident. Still limitations are what they are. Like many “better” Valpo seasons. It’ll come down to November-January if they take next step or half of roster leaves.