Playoff contention means a 9-3 season, which is realistic. If Iowa goes 1-2 to start the Big Ten and wins the next six (certainly possible) that's 10-2, a shot at the playoff. But I think 9-3 is more likely.Playoff contention means the Hawks went at least 1-2 during the murderers row stretch and went deep into the season with 2 or less losses.
It also means the lost a late season game that knocked them out. That would really suck.
Yes, the goal for KF and team should be making the playoffs (at least). The OP isn't about the internal goals of the team, though. What would be an objective judgment regarding success for each of these teams?Easiest answer ever. It would not be a success. In year 28 or whatever we are in of his tenure, if the goal isn’t to make the playoffs then it’s time to move on.