Well, you start by not saying things like " this is going to be one of the best defensive xavier teams ever." There are also ways for coaches to frame expectations to the fanbase without sounding like you dont think the kids are worth a darn.
I think Steele is even surprised just how inept and untalented this team is though, and I quite frankly think hes very ready for this year to be over. I honestly dont think he likes this team very much..he'd obviously never say that, but when they showed him in the huddle last night, it said a lot about what he thinks of this team as a whole.