Though many of those points I'll concede, many can cut both ways. Having clean living, law abiding dudes, united in kicking some keyster on the field should be enough. As long as the coaching staff recruits, prepares, and strategizes among the top 20% brain trust-wise. A CFB team that fully believes and is all in w knowing their coaches will outsmart and outmaneuver the opponent is a very formidable thing. If they don't, those doubts and lack of confidence is enough to ensure mediocrity.

I just don't think our lack of criminals, payoffs, and friendly hostesses is anything resembling a decent excuse for mediocrity on the field. Like wise men say, excuses are like bungholes. Everyone has one, and they always stink.