The money that comes in from TV now dwarfs the contract of a coach as compared to 5- 10 years ago. They have the funds. The NIL is a tougher issue because that can't come from the U coffers. I have been for retaining Ben, with the assumption that he can retain the loyalty of the bulk of his roster, because I agree that the disposable coach thing doesn't work. The problem with Ben is not his fault- he was just a terrible hire in terms of qualifications. When tough times hit, which they were certain to, it is easy for fans, players, recruits and boosters to lose faith because he has no resume that proves he can do it.
Losing Payne is a watershed moment. It's too late to fire Ben, but this is it. Win this year or be done with this.