Do you propose separating the conference from the IHSA playoffs?
I'm glad you asked. I would separate them only until the semifinal round.
1) All CCL/ESCC teams make the playoffs regardless of record.
2) Divide the 24 teams into three groups of eight teams each. This can be done based on student enrollment or team ability.
3) Each group of eight teams plays three rounds of playoffs among themselves to produce one winner.
4) The winner of Group A advances to the semifinals of the IHSA 8A playoffs.
5) The winner of Group B advances to the semifinals of the IHSA 7A playoffs.
6) The winner of Group C advances to the semifinal round of the IHSA 6A playoffs.
7) The other 24 teams (three quadrants of eight teams) in those three class levels will be teams that are not in the CCL/ESCC.
8) Any CCL/ESCC playoff group (A, B or C) that does not win a state championship for five consecutive years will drop down one class level for the playoffs the following year.
If CCL/ESCC member schools do not like the new arrangement, then, as they like to say, they should "just get better".
