Not every start to the season feels the same. Regardless, a new season always means a healthy dose of optimism for the possibilities to come.
In western Massachusetts, the optimism is real and reasonable.
A strong second half finish in 2017 has Minutemen fans believing 2018 is the year their team not only breaks the .500 wall, but reaches a bowl for the first time since their move to FBS.
Head coach Mark Whipple, now in Year 5 of Stint two, has tangible expectations of success this season.
Offense
The gang that put up about 31 points per game is (mostly) back.