Previously.

Bronco didn’t like independence for a variety of reasons- one being the additional game prep week in and week out that was required. When playing in a conference, “dominant” programs and coaches realize the tendency of certain programs and other coaches. Easy example- Air Force. Bronco was an absolute pro with the triple option. That meant game prep that week was easier. He knew what to do.

Have things like that week in and out for the first 6 ish years of coaching and numbers will look good. Change out opponents 8/12 weeks a season and add that with a coach that didn’t like extended game prep hours and you get losses like he had.