Crawford probably isn't an NFL back. Not enough speed and his durability and small frame limit his opportunities.
I don't fault anyone for skipping these meaningless post season exhibition games. There are about 10 bowl Games that mean something TOPS.. The rest are filler programming for ESPN. I do watch most though.
As for reducing the # of bowl games, that probably won't happen til the ratings & attendance bottom out a little further. I believe it is on its way because it is becoming fashionable for players to skip. Every year more and more do. Costs for going rises every year while Attendance and Ratings are falling. IMO Schools shouldn't get a bowl game without 8 wins. Eliminating the guaranteed opportunity (6-6 and even 5-7 in some years) will increase interest and make it special.