Adding a 5 star or two a year would certainly improve our chances and might actually get us to the top once in a while, but I think there is a little more to it. Overall, Kelly has done a good job of reinventing himself and the program, but aside from that, there are still improvements to be made. Our offense works against most teams we play and some more skill players would help, but we also need to adjust to our talent better as well as what we do when we face the top level teams. A little more variety in the running game would help with a bit more of the QB under center and quick hitting plays for quicker defenses. Also, working towards a Clemson model of using the backups more in game would be a very good move as it would develop depth as well as keeping the backups fully invested and giving the starters fresh.
All of this is still possible, especially since Kelly has gotten past some of his stubbornness. Regarding talent, this off season could be a great year to make the leap as a top 5 finish and getting into the playoff shows we are close and as good a football destination as anyplace except Bama or Clemson. Talent wants to go where they have a chance to win and memories are short, so right now is the best ND has looked for recruits in years.