Football brings in the revenue. If the team performs poorly for an extended period, or if there is a long-term drought of 'special' seasons, interest and support begin to wither and, with them, revenues. The whole athletic department suffers as a result.

Some things are worth investing in, even if it means stretching the budget up front. Football is one such. BYU needs to become a final destination for good coaches. Pony up for top-tier coaches (at all levels) who have a good understanding of team management, discipline, scheme, and branding. If we can return to some winning consistency and find that occasional special season again, the revenue will pick way up (not just ticket sales, but TV, bowls, etc. also) and should pay dividends on the investment.

It's going to take a strong and convincing AD to make the case to a very conservative investing admin.