I think they think that a couple OOC losses won't be pivotal, if they happen, e.g., lose 2 of 3 OOC contests and win the division and you could be an impressive 10-3.
I personally don't think an "impressive 10-3" should make even an 8 teamer, but whatever. It helps that GaTech may well be a pastry then as now. Or not. I had thought the Dawgs should drop Tech to play a better schedule, but perhaps keeping them is OK if they play a better schedule.