This is a worthwhile effort that, I hope, will drive a stake through the heart of this myth once and for all. I am in lockstep with @Footballking16’s thinking on this issue. But while he is no doubt right in his conclusion, I place more emphasis on what such a qualifying format would do for the regular season. By raising the stakes for many, many regular season games, the whole season becomes more competitive. The level of interest and the caliber of play would rise accordingly. Better for everyone.