One of Rhino's key strengths that he probaly does better than every lefty on tour (except maybe Couch) is generating speed and leverage at the release point while using footwork so he doesn't have to accelerate on the downswing. Problem is, the A-22 machine this year is having major issues laying the patterns down true.
With the huge mound of oil in the midlane to the end of the pattern that the A-22 is laying down, every pattern is alot different than they used to play and it's a big re-learning of these patterns that the players have to go through. He adapted pretty fast to the patterns last year, and with the left side usually hooking more than the right and having a touch more hold last year, his A-game fit the patterns very well. Now with A22 and the modifications you have to break down and rebuild physically to combat new experiences each week. That goes for everyone. Look how far down averages have been so far on the "named" patterns once you get out of the top 20 in qualifying. At least 10 pins a game from last year.
The patterns aren't playing anywhere close to what they used to play like and if you don't pick up quickly on them and can alter every preconcieved notion you had about them on the fly, it's very easy to get out to a slow start and not have enough time to bounce back. Looks like that's happening to Rhino and alot of other guys.
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-DJ Marshall
...The Twelve In a Row Pro Shop. AMF Bowie Lanes -- Bowie, MD
