I know this will come totally out of left field, but I don’t agree with this crazy notion either. Why? Because I am alum of a 1A school (guess which one😉) and I can tell you a few things:
Football brings people together. Beyond the players who are learning strategy, and team building skills, it allows fans to get together and mingle. It’s also allows small businesses to get their name out.
Ancillary services. Band, cheer squads, and athletic trainers all have the opportunity to hone their craft before taking it to the next level.
Supporter of other sports. Football as well as basketball are the primary breadwinners in the IHS double A. Therefore the money they take in through gate receipts, etc. will help fund the smaller sports such as wresting which ultimately FB players do participate in.