I also see that Ohio State is #14. I figured Carlson would do big things there, but I think it says a lot for our current coaching staff that we really haven't missed a beat since he's left. Coach Theis definitely deserves an extension if he hasn't gotten on already, and hopefully no other big name programs come calling for a while. Long way to go, but wonder if we could keep winning could we realistically make a push towards the top 10 or does conference SOS make that virtually impossible?
Hard to believe, but Ryan has now been here 6 years, which is I think just as long as Carlston. As I mentioned in another thread, It appears Ryan and his staff stepped up recruiting several years ago, and we are seeing the fruits of their labors before us. This year's accomplishments to date speak for themselves, but are even more impressive when you consider that A) a top frontline player (Serena Warner) transferred and Chelsea, who was all MAC last year, is injured and done for the season. Freshmen stepped right up, we got big time help from the graduate transfer rule in landing Alexis, and Liis has blossomed into a strong frontline player. The depth of this team is something you don't see in the MAC.
As far as contract extensions are concerned, unfortunately they generally include out clauses, so should Ryan receive a big time offer, well, there's little you can do. But with the ladies on hand now, and those committed for next season, the future appears bright in any event. This is a program that up and comers across the country have their eye on should the HC job open up.
I know Carlston is a competitive guy, but the Big 10 is an absolute meatgrinder. You are going against a top 25 program (or 2 of them) every week. That's the downside. The upside is that if you hold your own and finish with at least a .500 conference record, you're assured of a tourney bid.