I applaud your optimism as well as your pragmatism. However, the facts are that since the very beginning of the Intercollegiate Conference of Faculty Representatives through today's BIG the programs at the forefront have pretty much remained static. Admittedly, there have been short lived exceptions but the record speaks for itself. Penn State is a prime example of the resilience of marque' program's. Most programs, us included, would not have survived the turmoil PSU endured let alone flourish as that program has. There are many other examples of which we're all familiar.
As unwavering supporters we're perpetually optimistic and hopeful but time has a way of dampening expectations and this most recent gut punch is a painful reminder.