If an A.D. and head T&F coach want to win, leave 1 athletic grant for (1500 to 10000)m athletes and use all other grants on jumpers, sprinters and throwers.
The reason why fewer athletic grants for male T&F athletes, college American football teams used to be huge. There was a time when American college football teams had unlimited rosters. About fifty years ago, about 120 man roster. T&F coach used to be able to shop for talent on American football team. Decades ago, American football coaches didn't mind sharing 3rd or 4th string receivers, running backs and linemen.
Today, T&F coaches have to get their own jumpers, sprinters and throwers. There will usually be cross-country walk-ons. No need to spend athletic grants on distance runners, 2024.