Well, with the conclusion of a phenomenal season for the NAC, I can't help but look at next year. Lets take a moment to soak in the success that was season 26 in the NAC:
Top Conference RPI (0.013 Margin.. substantial)
NT Champion
PIT Champion
#1 RPI Team
#1 Ranked Team
etc..
After pointing out the impressive accomplishments, I think it's time to take a realistic look at next season. Obviously, Salem St.'s superclass was huge in getting the NAC to the top spot on the conference RPI. However, it's easy for teams outside of the NAC to discount some of the other teams who played a crucial role in this season's success. We're not a one-and-done. Don't count on it.
Next season, I think our goal should be to strive for Top 5 in conference RPI. If you crunch the raw numbers (which should be taken with a grain of salt), the Minn. IAC is going to take the top spot by a landslide. I say this having never looked at their teams' returning players.. only looking at what my software tells me. But, my software tells me they're going to be ridiculous, and with the caliber of coaches over there, I believe it. The numbers also tell me that the NAC is around to stay.. no pulling a "Centennial" next year (LOL, I <3 you guys.. rivalries ftw!), we're shooting for Top 5.
-Adam