Are the parents/family members who have also expressed excitement for Ford being forced, too? Who on the team voiced support for Ford and has left?
There were 12 players on the roster with remaining eligibility. 5 have entered the Portal, one is Connor Groce, and another was likely mutual (Brisco). So far, we've retained 70% of the players we've wanted to, barring any other Portal entries. In today's world, that's a highly successful retention rate. In addition, we actually WANT open scholarships to be able to bring in guys that might fit Ford's system better. After all, he is his own coach now.
You're also completely undervaluing his coaching experience. He's been an assistant under one of the better coaches in the country for the better part of 2 decades. He is largely credited with the development of one of - if not the best player in Akron history in Freeman. Players love playing for him. Those are legitimate selling points.
Any substantial level of negativity at this point is a choice rather than reality.