They did have alot of senior leaderhsip on last years team that is gone now. We will see them take a step back this year, maybe drop back to 5-6 wins. And you can't really expect Christian Hackenberg to step in right away and lead them to another 8-9 win season.
The lack of depth will be what catches up to them. Their starters MAY be on level with the others, but from about the mid-3rd quarter on, you're really gonna see that team struggle, most likely in the trenches.
Depth took a tole on them this year as well, and O'Brien is going to have to do what he can to manage the clock as much as possible.
I just don't see PSU being "terrible". Terrible to me is what Illinois had for a record last year, or only winning 3-8 in conference play. The great thing about their situation, is every kid is going to be motivated to step up when they need to be, because of the lack of depth. I was shocked to see them have the success they had last year. Yes, I do believe Hackenburg will go in, make a huge impact. 9 win season, no, but at least a 6-7 win season. I would honestly be shocked if PSU was below a .500 team.