They're not going to be nationally good, they may not even be terribly competitive in the Big East considering early season results for some other teams, but considering how bad some previous years have been, I'll take an 8-0 start against poor competition. Mix that with the new facility and maybe there's some momentum to be found for the program.
I don't think it's that unreasonable to hope for an undefeated non-conference slate this year, though New Hampshire will likely be very tough. I think I will be going to the game today, so hopefully it continues.