He hired Petrino. Now he has to make the decision as to whether or not to fire him. Logically it seems like a no brainer. He nearly has to fire him. This is even worse than the Jim Tressel deal, and he got the axe. The reputation of the University and the state is at stake here.
Some things are worth another chance if the coach is doing a good job. This just isn't. Long has to bite the bullet and make the change.
He has all the ammunution he needs.