You're team just isn't quite strong enough to compete with them at this point. You need to work on long term plans. Build up that stadium to about 20k, then hit the transfer market. From what I see by mid season you'll need a QB, an OL, a TE, a K, a KR, and a G, in that order. Get them as much playing time as you can to replace the players you'll lose this season, or soon.

I would think you're a long shot to promote. But if you build properly and quickly, you'll be competitive next season and able to challenge for the league.

My first cup game is a bot. Im on a good start I suppose.

u wont promote but u have a good shot against a couple of them who have trained the hell out the players. work on the spine of your team and come out fighting next season, if u upset a few this season then they will watchout for u too.