You make a good case. They certainly *could* do better, but would they do better? They pay him less than $250k after bonuses. I guess we'll find out what they want to do, because I think his contract is up as of less than an hour ago.
I think we tend to look at other programs with a less critical view than we do our own. I think the biggest problem with him is the trajectory of the team. This is his 6th season. These are his players and they are a hot mess. If Saul put this team on the court in year 6 I would be leading the charge to get him canned.
Everything you said is true, but I think it's fair to be less critical with other programs. We have the biggest building, draw the biggest crowds and pay some of the biggest salaries. We should be demanding more.
What does the below-MAC-average salary and hopeless fan situation in Ypsi really get you? The best they'll do is an up-and-coming assistant, a coach from the dregs of D1 or someone from a lower division.
Your assessment of Murphy and his teams is accurate, but EMU is not Ohio (thankfully). I just don't see a great answer for them, but it may well be time for a fresh start.