For some reason I'm thinking North Central was third largest when I was in high school. Carmel, BD, NC, and then Penn or WC at either four and five. I don't think that fact throws a broomstick into your spokes or anything, just thinking that's how it was.
That's understandable. I suppose I'd change my mind if Westfield falls off, but having possible matchups with Westfield and HSE in the sectional and regional seems like reason enough to tamp down any expectation of annual state finals appearances. Those schools are large enough to negate any advantage that Carmel's enrollment might give them. Although, maybe the short-leash approach is less imprudent considering they've had Dullaghan, Belden, Moriarity, and Wright stalking the sidelines and could almost certainly get whoever they want in the future.