out, you are more likely to make the playoffs or get into a NY6 bowl. Now it matters less than when we had the smaller playoff and were independent, but it still matters for the 7 at-large spots in the playoffs. If we blow out everyone and lose a close one. That might push us over the edge. But weak wins will keep them thinking we are just a paper tiger and move on.
I don't really care all that much now, but it would bother me to take the foot off the gas when the other team is still trying (onside kicks and TDs, going for two, etc). If they think they are still in the game, then put a metaphorical foot on their throat and put the game so far out of reach they have to let up.