Matchmaking

The rationale being that the player base has dwindled to the point where any filters on the search ( skill level, matching number of players, etc ) would result in unacceptable search times.

The playerbase has not dwindled. Of course, it's possible to play other teams more than once. I'm not saying that doesn't happen. I just see a lot of speculation that the playerbase is dead. Which it most certainly isn't.

There were frequent complaints that matchmaking takes too long. We also get feedback from upset players regarding watching replays or the intermissions are too long. We get complaints when pretty much any screen doesn't instantly load or for anything where you're not actively playing the game. Not matching by division helps speed up matches to get you playing faster. Also, the division isn't necessarily an indicator of their skill. They may not play as often as others so their division is lower, but they still have the skill to play in higher divisions. They also could have drop-in players with them. So, division isn't always a fair representation of the skill of your opponents.

I get it. Everyone wants easier competition. It's frustrating to lose. No matter the game, there's always going to be differing levels of skill. The best I can recommend is to use these matches where you're playing a higher skilled team as a learning experience. You're going to have a hard time improving as a team without taking on tougher competition.

That said, I would love to see a filter in place where you can choose to wait for a team closer to your own division with the understanding you're going to have a harder time finding matches. I have consistently relayed this feedback. I just don't think this will happen with 26.