IMHO there are a few areas you can start watching from the first game that will be a good indicator of the long term performance of this team:

• Special team lineups. Meyer and SOS put starters here, had competition to play on special teams, emphasized them and got HUGE plays from them.
• OL getting to the 2nd level. UF has the size, the beef, and the experience. Just no performance. If the OL makes the block right in front of them consistently, we should have a decent offense. But if they block that man and then go find a LB or DB to put on the ground, that is what real good OL's do.
• WR's and backs blocking with a vengeance. Been pretty lackadaisical last few years.
• QB's making quick decisions. Enough said.
• WR's getting open. God I miss this most of all, been a long time....

The amount of ice that can be crammed into plastic cups by UF vendors. 

The ratio of sorority girls wearing boots to games. 

The number of times you inexplicably come to a complete stop on I-75 while traveling to game. 

The number of times UF training staff are summoned to the field (excluding cases of obvious cramping). 

The inventory of Beats headphones and IPads at the campus bookstore (during Fall camp only). 

Number of games called by Beth Mowins. 

References made during the season to the Belk or Tax Slayer Bowl. 

The greater of the two; Fan base mentions of Will Grier or some combination of Franks and an expletive. 

The number of times unironically giving another fan a high-five during game. 

The list price on Stub Hub for Idaho game tickets.