There’s no magic formula that applies across the board, but the entry-level requirement is a rabid and engaged fan base. We also look for opportunities where perhaps the potential audience is a bit underserved. But most importantly, it’s about the writers. Whether it’s someone who’s already established on the beat or a talented up-and-comer, we’ve got to be 100 percent confident they can come in and crush it like our current crew does.

I’m excited about this year’s additions because they include some less-obvious choices like Boise State and Arkansas. We wouldn’t be doing it if we didn’t think there was a demand.

Now, as you said, I’m sure there will be snubbed readers sounding off in the comments section — so far this week I’ve heard from Colorado, N.C. State, North Carolina, UCF and UCLA, among others. Bear with us. We’re still a very young company. And hiring people is HARD. This is not the NBA Draft, we don’t just write a name on a piece of paper and voila, they’re one of us. It’s completely consumed my last three offseasons (as well as managing editor Dan Uthman’s). But I’m sure we’ll be back at it again in spring 2020.