the football program, it should be the other way around. Athletics exist to better the school and enrich the experience of all the students. I, probably naively, still hold that this is the way it should be. It is not meant to be a pseudo-professional football league (though CFB is becoming that more and more each season).
If you agree with my view, then if the school doesn't want athletes just showing up for a year to play with no intention of finishing their program that is their prerogative. If you do not agree with my view, then I can see how this situation is frustrating.