No, College wrestling is a business. It's not a revenue sport for all schools, But for some it definately is. the early season matches are just as important as Feb and March.
Is there a reason why you are on a wrestling board? I imagine its because you lo ve wrestling.
You think fan bases would stick around if the season was shorter?. The early season gives us a better lay of the land. (See Crookham).
Also, say you are a #1 seed and lose in your conference tournament and don't place, would there be enough criteria to guarantee a wild card if you have very few matches ( your conference schedule essentially) or havent wrestled the best competition?