see an analysis of the games last season where penalties "contributed greatly" to several losses.

If last season we were 6th in the nation and had several losses tied to penalties (using your words) then why are we 4-0 this year when we are 2nd in the nation in penalties? Wouldn't it stand to reason we should have at least one loss where penalties "contributed greatly?"

Maybe the difference is talent and experience and this season we have more of each.

On second thought, maybe I am disagreeing with your premise.