I do think my point about overall cost still stands ... they're trying to avoid paying for another night in a hotel for 15+ rooms when they can get out of town sooner; paying for a $30/person hotel breakfast and full day of meals on the road/in an airport vs. what comes with their meal plans and nutrition centers on campus.

It seems silly, but even the Big Dogs have budgets to consider, and you can't really put a price on the value of a true day off without cross-country travel involved. That's why they would fly back on a Saturday post-game.

But, the gamesmanship involved is pretty unfortunate. I'd agree with you there - that is frustrating.