I gave my expectations in the OP for play against a FCS school.

Numbers aren't the be all end all in sports. If we are relying on 4th down conversions against the weakest opponent on our schedule, then what does that say about how things will go against tougher competition? Not only will we need 4th down conversions, but probably longer distance to gain for the first down, which further decreases the odds we will convert.

I understand improvement is possible during the season, but that's only if the coaches and players aren't complacent with pretty looking numbers. Find chinks in the armor and target improving those. That's one of the things that made Nick Saban different and able to reach "next level" success and sustain it. He was on a quest for perfection.