Yup. Underhill's article is a revelation for some who live in their emotions but for those that are in touch with reality this is plain to see. Injuries matter in a sport that hyper dependent on matchups.
Outside of injuries the only players that I think showed their age significantly was Cam Jordan but it wasn't a lack of effort imo.
The injuries were tough to deal with but in the long-run they may have been the key to getting what could be a very good coaching staff.
As the saints in church say, "All things work together for the good to those that love the Lord and are called for His purpose." Can I get an amen!