Injuries definitely not helping, as we aren't as deep as some othet squads. Also this play calling has been conservative. Not a great time of year to be backsliding.
The CFP Management Comittee assigns bowl games based on geography while avoiding giving 1 team a de facto home game. As far as I understand, conference tie ins dont matter if the game is part of the playoff.
I see the appeal of avoiding a long layoff, but with the way the injuries have been adding up, an extra few weeks to heal physically would be nice. I trust this coaching staff (over many others) to have them mentally prepared even with a longer break.