to avoid both a "conflict" (firing of head coach) & the payout because of said firing.

I argue 4 wins or less this fall will force Tom (& the conflict-avoidance admin) to make a change because 4 wins or less clearly shows that Kalani has "lost" the players & the program is clearly in a "freefall" thus necessitating a change.

There's no reason to keep Kalani another season when it's clear his time has come. Yes, Tom & the admin will be filled with anguish & "clutching of pearls" but the situation demands action.