I agree rankings don't really matter that much, as there is no gaming allowed. And attendance is not effected either. Just gives someone something to talk about. Last year we had two placers in the State tournament and our admin stayed home and watched it on TV and facebook/twitter. If you want to increase gate get rid of the TV coverage and the facebook/twitter updates. Same happened to the OSU gate when TV picked up the home duals and tournaments.
But knowing that people ARE NOT coming anyway, but follow extensivly on the facebook (more post activity and follows/year during state tournament) and TV, gives you the promotion. Your damned if you do, and damned if you dont.