I always thought, when the time came, there would be a joint press conference with M & M, along with Stock. From a distance assumed there was a good degree of mutual respect and admiration among the three of them.
In essence saying Rick has decided to step aside, and will work as a special adviser/assistant to the Office of the President. Allows him to go out with his head held high, while still drawing a negotiated salary & benefits. A win/win for everyone.
The fact Massaro had to fire him tells me at least 3 things:
1. Rick thought things were going pretty well on the field.
2. He didn’t really grasp that the lack of fan support, as measured by in- game attendance and financial support, was tied at all to him as the face & leader of the football program.
3. There was obviously no way he was going to leave $5 million dollars on the table by resigning and taking another job with MT.
I did think, however, he would negotiate a buyout and stay connected to the University.
I certainly misread how this would unfold, when it finally happened.
Guess I don’t blame him for grabbing the $$$, but his lack of perceived self-awareness around items 1 & 2 is disappointing for someone with his scope of responsibility.