Chann, I'm not sure I disagree with anything in your post, except that injuries make for a convenient excuse. In fact, you make my case perfectly!

I can't recall any team sustaing the number of injuries to starters as this team has and then performing as consistantly well with back-ups and back-up-back-ups. The success is phenominal and the simple fact that they are still in the hunt despite some key names missing is a testimony to the accumulated depth and, just as important, the coaching skill of the staff, IMO.

You might be suggesting that my view is flawed, because if the team were less successful, I would make excuses and by the same token, I am abusing the injury status to inflate M3's accomplishments. Maybe I am, but winning with less than one planned with is always satisfying and praiseworthy, no matter the industry.