The kids on 2014 Baylor and/or TCU won't get the opportunity again. The Big 12's decision cost those kids and those schools a great opportunity. Now they are going to cost another team, or two, an opportunity while they "wait for more data."
They say, "playing the game can hurt too". That's true. But it only hurts if the team is unworthy in the first place. If you lose to inferior opponent in the championship game then you saved yourself from being exposed in the playoff. That's why the championship game is a key data point. Play the game, win the game, prove you belong!