Right now, there's enough reasons to be doubtful of a top 10 debut.
Is Brandon Wimbush over his case of the yips (he's looking good in practice, but that's not the real thing), or will it rear its ugly head as the season starts? This is year four in Brian Kelly's spread offense, and if he can't get it this year, then he's not going to get it.
Are Nelson's and McGlinchey's replacements going to be decent, or will they be liabilities? Based on the depth available, two guys from the group of Lugg, Eichenberg, and Ruhland should be able to step up, and play along side some veterans (Bars, Mustipher, Hainsey, Kraemer).
Is Boykin a true #1 WR? We haven't really had one since Will Fuller left.
If the question marks at QB, OL, and WR are answered with at least serviceable results, we'll be top ten after the first two games. If not, then it's going to be a long and disappointing season.
There's going to be plenty of movement in the rankings throughout the years. All we have to do is win and control our own destiny...