Braun Extension and Expectations

The Northwestern Wildcats extended coach David Braun through 2031, finally taking him off of the interim deal he signed in 2023. 

This is big news for the stability of the Wildcats program. The question on my mind is what Northwestern's expectations are for this football program. The Wildcats' NIL is even with Maryland and Michigan State, two programs without a whole lot of expectations for competing for a College Playoff spot, at least this season.

Does Northwestern expect Braun to take the Wildcats to the CFP? And is it achievable on a mid-tier budget that the Wildcats have committed to? 

I personally think the CFP would be a lot more attainable in a lesser conference like the ACC or Big 12. In the loaded Big Ten, it's going to take a lot of adjustments and perhaps more spending in the near future...