Programs that once sat at the top of their sports rarely disappear all at once. Instead, success fades gradually, leaving behind expectations shaped by banners and names.

This post was updated Jan. 26 at 7:10 p.m.
There is no easing into a season when you start at the top.
After both the men’s and women’s track and field teams claimed first-place finishes in their opening meet, the Bruins will return to competition facing a new challenge: racing with a target on their backs.