If you’re making straight up win/loss predictions now, you’re assuming A LOT of things. Common sense dictates that the offense will probably not be the best in the nation again and the improvements in the portal along with a new defensive staff should improve the defense but to what extent is just a guess.
You can try to make predictions based solely on the current roster but even that isn’t a finished product yet. There’s likely going to be additions in the spring.
Too early to know but as of now...
DB - A
High confidence this group of DBs is essentially proven talent that will perform like it and not be confused in the scheme:
LB - C+
Medium confidence they will be average or better, + for Bissainthe and the recruiting pedigree of the unknowns
DL - B
High confidence Bain & Mesidor will be above average on the DL if healthy, other guys will have to prove themselves. Moten isn't a gamebreaker but he can play. Want Justin Scott to be
that dude. If I had to guess at least one of Lightfoot/Pickett/McConathy is gonna be above average this year but unproven.
OL - B+
High confidence the OL is gonna be above average and capable of running the ball
TE - B
Big Lofton fan, want another guy to pop off
WR - unknown
Need another transfer here and/or a breakout
RB - B
It's not a Judkins and Henderson room but I don't think that is necessary to have a top 15 offense
QB - B- to A
Floor of too many INTs and inconsistency, ceiling of Heisman contender and 1st round draft pick
Not a dominant vintage Canes rooster but good enough to win the ACC