influx. You are not looking at how much other schools have increased transfer influx. Other schools are bringing in more kids than ND is to fill gaps. And ND has challenges compared to those schools to be able to fill in the slots that are opening up. ND will likely bring in larger freshman classes compared to those schools as a result, which will put an onus on development and retention--the latter part being more difficult these days.

I'm not saying that bag men never happened. But there's little reason to think that was a greater structural challenge than it was in the 80s. It was largely a bogeyman for people who refused to hold the head coach accountable for working harder at recruiting.

as if that's a good thing?

In other words, you're claiming that now ND is no different.

As for running guys off, ND does not revoke anyone's scholarship. Some kids will leave to seek playing time elsewhere but all have the option to stay.

Coaches at other schools who hold similar periodic conversations with players regarding playing time and their position on the depth chart don't always offer that option. While others (Andy) may disagree, I think that difference still has some significance.

Allowing a guy who isn't going to cut it on the football field to stay around and focus on academics and get a degree is hugely important. I'd argue it's the most important part of the scholarship offer.