re: Moving forward, Kelly must ensure we get 2 cupcakes to start the year

A 12 team playoff is going to put a premium on big wins more than a spotless record. There'll be plenty of two loss teams getting in. Maybe even the occasional three loss team. I'm not crazy about expanding it that far, (I think six with two byes would be ideal and include every realistic contender), but it should lead to more quality early season matchups rather than the fewer that you're advocating.