I stayed away from CF last night figuring the crazy over-reactionaries would be out in full force, and they are.
In general, this team is not as great ("#2 ranking," "we're the best!") as some of the over-reactionaries thought early in the year and not as bad ("we don't deserve to be ranked," "we might not even make the tournament") as some of the over-reactionaries think now. We've still got plenty of time to figure it out though and if this team goes on a winning streak or a deep NCAA run, all of this angst will be forgotten.
As to Doc's point above, it's Hilton and the students will be back. The complacency and less than intimidating atmosphere that was apparent while the students were gone should be gone as well and hopefully the people will believe again. If you don't believe we will win, then you don't believe in the Magic!
I hear what the OP is saying and think it is likely. I don't know if OU will be number 1 though.