I’d prefer the program not sink to the depths of the 58-0 loss to Clemson. Some will post we’re that bad, but I do not believe we are. The roster is improved but has holes at QB and OL. The program infrastructure is dramatically improved from a spending perspective, and there is the IPF. The issue is coaching.
If I were hired as AD I’d ask Richt for an evaluation of all coaching staff members. What they each did well, what each didn’t do well. Explain how each can improve. I’d ask for the same self-evaluation of his own performance. I’d ask what changes would he or is he considering. I’d ask what support does he need from me, and from the school.
If he was willing to make changes on the staff but needed more money, I’d ask for names of who’d he would let go, and who would be on his list potential replacements.
I would also contact football people outside of the program for their confidental opinions. Former players, former coaches like JJ, and others without ties to Miami. Assume I am a well-connected AD. Assume I understand the BOT’s goals for the athletic programs, specifically football. Do they want to be a perennial CFP and ACC title contender? Or are they content with 9 win seasons with lesser bowls, and an occasional ACC title?
If Richt gave me a song-and-dance about the players not executing and he’d retain his complete staff I’d start back-channel conversations regarding a new HC.