Agreed, they still have something to play for: pride, love of the game, family, fans, coaches, saving face, etc.
BUT, when you also have the possibility of making the playoffs, NY6 bowl, conference championship, top 10 ranking, undefeated season, other big bowl game, national notoriety, bragging rights, etc, we all have to admit, there is a significant amount more to play for.
It's not necessarily "nothing to play for," but more like a "lot less to play for" and I'm sure it has an impact on players' motivation.