He's certainly not the 2012 Cotchin but I don't think we should be that surprised.
He had an outstanding season last year, maybe over achieved, was going to be a challenge to back it up. Was given captaincy, around the time expectations of the biggest club in the competition is moving towards succeeding. Was quoted equal 2nd favourite for the Brownlow before Round 1.
I don't care who you are or how good you are, its not surprising if all of that is before you and you aren't 'champion status' He's captained us to a 10 and 5 position on the ladder. He's learning to deal with media commitments, its a big ask, learnt a harsh lesson when he joked about retiring after 1 flag. Think he's been a bit cautious since that.
Compare his stats from this year and last year they aren't that different.
2012 vs 2013
Disposals: 27.5 vs 25.6 (Down by 1.9 possessions a game)
Marks: 4.2 vs 3.9 (Down by 0.3 marks a game)
Tackles: 4.9 vs 3.2 (Down by 1.7 tackles a game)
Goals: 1.0 vs 0.2 (Down by 0.8 goals a game)
Add the fact in that he played games slightly injured and possibly still is carrying a knee niggle.
Compare his numbers between 2011 and 2013 and he's up in all areas except goals.
Think we are very harsh on Cotchin. Yes he's not playing like he did in his standout, 2nd in the Brownlow season. But for a guy who has played 100 games, captaining his first season, trying to back up a great year last year. I think he's going fine... Cut the lad some slack.
