The people that do research...

Actually understand what Navy football and Paul Johnson are about and anticipated what would happen this year:

From a May 14th, 2007 article titled "Can't wait to see these things in the fall" by ESPN college football analysts Ivan Maisel and Mark Schlabach:

From Schlabach:

This is the year to catch Navy, where coach Paul Johnson must rebuild his defense and his offensive line. But with Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada established at quarterback, and Army and Air Force dealing with new coaches, the Midshipmen should win their fifth consecutive Commander-In-Chief's Trophy. After all, if a wizened head like Bobby Ross couldn't turn it around at Army, what can be said for his replacement, former NFL stalwart Stan Brock?

From Maisel:
Can Paul Johnson do it again at Navy? The Midshipmen must replace nine starters on defense and a few regulars on the offensive line. But with quarterback Kaipo-Noa Kaheaku-Enhada and a handful of talented slotbacks returning, there is no reason to believe the Midshipmen can't win at least six games, which would earn them another trip to the Dec. 20 San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl. If that happens, will the rest of college football recognize that Johnson is truly one of the best coaches in the land?

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So you see, not only did Navy have to replace nine starters on defense, its three best and most experienced defensive players (and team captain Jeff Deliz) are standing on the sidelines injured. Despite the defensive issues, Navy is still on track to win 7 games, win the commander in chief trophy again and exceed expectations yet again.