...that Manieri wasn't looking to leave, even for LSU. ND created the circumstances that ultimately presented themselves.
And it's easy for White to be diplomatic after the fact. White is presenting his varnished side of the story. Manieri was leaving regardless of White's attempts to play hardball. ND would've done better to appreciate his contributions. I don't think White grasped this concept.
But let's just say that ND could have avoided Manieri's departure, and I am not referring to this particular buyout situation.
Manieri contributed more to ND than White ever did.
And they gave White an honorary Monogram and sent him happily on his way to Duke. They should have shitcanned that SOB and sued him for his entire back salary and all of the buyouts he cost the University.