re: Should division record be the only record that matters?

I agree with this point. Subdividing the conference into divisions satisfies the NCAA criteria for holding a championship game. That's the only functional benefit I see for having divisions. As it stands now, the existence of divisions constrains and aggravates scheduling, especially when it comes to preserving traditional rivalries and grow the membership.

So, when weighing the pros and cons of making division records trumping conference records, if you view divisions as a required evil and a PITA instead of a natural and helpful tool, then it should become clear that conference records must take precedent over all other factors.



** Clarification about divisions being useless: They're useless in the SEC because the conference already has existing rivalries. Newer conferences, or transient-heavy leagues might could be well served by divisions because they wouldn't get in the way of existing traditions (because, by-definition, there aren't any).