Sure, there are some mileposts along the way. Signing day in February helps some. So does the spring game in April, and by the time we get to fall camp in Vero Beach at least there is some hope that the season is finally going to get here.

We counted the days.  Joe wide receiver is doing great.  Bob defensive lineman gained 20 pounds.  Lots of stories.  No games.

We read the preseason predictions and found some thought provoking, some ridiculous. We watched a practice or two.  The calendar was tricky. Every seven days we got a day closer to the opening game.

Or so it seemed.

Then, suddenly game week arrived. Like a freight train. 

We've got a game this week!

It's great to have everything going in a week to remember.  Skip Holtz radio show Wednesday night.  Travel Friday.  Kickoff Saturday.  A new season of USF Football is finally here.

I'm optimistic about this team.  In truth, I've been optimistic about each of the 14 USF teams that came before them, too.  But this team seems a little different somehow.  There is a lot of talent, and while the coaches wish for additional depth, I think there is a bit more on this team than we've had in the past.   There is an unusual level of camaraderie and closeness with this team, and I believe there will be a time somewhere in this season where the value of that will be very apparent to all of us.

The year is not without its challenges.  Saturday will be the first road opener for the Bulls since 2005. They've opened away from home four times (1999, 2001, 2003 and 2005) and haven't won any of them.  With the proper respect to each of those past teams, however, this team may be the best equipped to face the challenges of a tough road opponent right out of the box.

It will be the beginning of a remarkable September.  The Bulls will play five of their 12 regular season games in a period of 26 days.  They will travel twice and will have their conference opener in that span.

A lot of our questions will be answered in the next month.  Chances are a few more will be raised.

I hope you can join us in South Bend on Saturday.  If not, we'll bring the game to you at starting at 1:30 p.m. on 970 WFLA and the USF-IMG Radio Network.  TV is on NBC (a first for the Bulls) starting at 3:30 p.m.  And your most in depth coverage will be right here at Bullsvision and GoUSFBulls.com.

The clock started when the clock stopped at the end of the game in Charlotte on December 31.  It's been a long haul.

Congratulations, Bulls fans, you've made it through the offseason.

Now, enjoy kickoff!