Yes - understanding where they were and where they are means I don't care about excellence.
Troy Aikman was 1-15. Michael Jordan didn't win squat for years. Peyton Manning took forever to win a Super Bowl. No excellence there - it took more than 22 months.
If we make the playoff in the next three years, your perspective makes sense. We are talking about a being a top 70 team and potential bid for the Boca Raton bowl. I don't even know what airport that is, FLL maybe?
It's like learning to make toast. Once you learn not to stick either your fingers or a fork into the toaster, you've met the bar. I don't care if the toast is burnt to hell.
The team stuck it's hand in the toaster at least three times last year, costing at least three wins which would have been a 5 win season. This year, by simply not crapping their pants they will likely end up a 5 wins. While technically, that's progress and an improvement, it's the kind you don't really want to crow about.
From my seat, with the exception of the return game, OL and LB, this might be one of the more talented teams we've had. Those are big holes to fill for sure and we won't challenge for a conf title until we do. That is where patience is required. You shouldn't have to wait three seasons to make a bowl game.