Reason for optimism?

Compare Mizzou's record through the first two conference games over the last five years:

2004
9-6 (1-1), went on to lose three straight... finish with NIT loss

2003
6-5 (1-1), went on to lose 4 of next 8... finish with NIT loss

2002
10-3 (1-1), no obvious trend... finish with second round NCAA loss

2001
11-3 (1-1), went on to win 6 of next 8... advanced to the Elite Eight

So far this year, the Tigers are 9-4 (2-0) and the upcoming schedule (CU, kU, @ KSU, ISU, @ NU, UT, @ TT, @ BU) indicates that they should be able win at least four or five of the next eight games. If they play like they did against OU, it's probably more like 6 of the next 8.

To be fair, our schedule this year has been weak and OU may turn out to be vastly overrated. I wouldn't be at all surprised if we see this team suddenly tank like it did in '04 or '03. Still, there is a chance that this team could surprise people. Frankly, I think it all depends on the kU game. If we win that, it will propel the team forward. If not, it could be a long season.